Pronunciation: [fˈɛlʌkə] (IPA) 
Felucca is a traditional wooden boat commonly used in Egypt. The word 'felucca' is spelled as /fəˈluːkə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, 'fə', is pronounced as 'fuh' with an unstressed schwa sound, while the second syllable, 'luː', is pronounced as 'loo' with a long 'u' sound. The final syllable 'kə' is pronounced with an unstressed 'uh' sound. The spelling of 'felucca' is derived from the Arabic word 'faluka'.
A felucca is a traditional wooden sailing boat, typically found in Egypt and other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean. The name "felucca" is derived from the Arabic word "faluka," which means a small ship. These vessels have been an essential part of the region's maritime culture for centuries, primarily used for fishing and transportation.
A felucca is characterized by its distinctive lateen sail, a triangular sail set on a long yard mounted at an angle to the mast. This design allows the boat to catch the prevailing winds efficiently. The sail is often brightly colored and decorated with traditional patterns, adding to the boat's aesthetic appeal. The hull is typically made from wood, which is specially treated to ensure its durability and seaworthiness.
Feluccas can vary in size, from small single-sailed boats used for fishing or ferrying passengers across rivers, to larger vessels used for longer journeys. They are known for their stability, maneuverability, and ability to navigate shallow waters, making them particularly suitable for coastal regions and calmer seas.
Today, feluccas serve not only utilitarian purposes but also offer a unique experience for tourists seeking a distinctive sailing adventure. Visitors can enjoy cruising along the Nile River or exploring picturesque coastal areas while experiencing the charm and romance associated with these iconic vessels.
In summary, a felucca is a traditional wooden sailing boat with a lateen sail, renowned for its stability, maneuverability, and cultural significance in the Eastern Mediterranean.
A small sailing vessel common in the Mediterranean.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "felucca" is derived from the Turkish word "fılıka", which in turn comes from the Arabic word "falaqa". The term "falaqa" originally referred to a type of small boat used on the Nile River in Egypt. Over time, the word was adopted by other cultures and languages, evolving into its current form "felucca". Feluccas are traditional wooden sailing boats that have been used in the Mediterranean and Red Sea regions for centuries.
