galley Hear it!

galley definition

gal·ley (galē)

noun pl. galleys -·leys

  1. a long, low, usually single-decked ship propelled by oars and sails, used esp. in ancient and medieval times: the oars were usually manned by chained slaves or convicts
    1. the kitchen of a ship, boat, or airplane
    2. a small, compact, or cramped kitchen
  2. Brit. a large rowboat
  3. Printing
    1. a shallow, oblong tray for holding composed type before it is put into a form
    2. galley proof

Etymology: ME galeie < OFr galie < ML galea < MGr galaia, kind of ship < Gr galeos, shark < galeē, weasel (in reference to its speed)

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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