gondola

word

Definition

A long, narrow boat used especially in Venice, Italy, for carrying people along canals. The word can also refer to a type of cable car, or the basket of a hot air balloon.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly refers to the Venetian boat, but can also mean a cable car compartment, a hot air balloon's basket, or—as a less common usage—the shelving used in supermarkets. In travel contexts, 'gondola ride' usually means in Venice. Note: pronounced 'GON-duh-luh' in English.

Example Sentences

We took a gondola ride along the canal in Venice.

basic

The gondola moves slowly through the water.

basic

A gondola can carry several people at once.

basic

We watched as the gondola driver sang to his passengers.

natural

Let's meet up at the mountain for a gondola ride to the top.

natural

The hot air balloon's gondola is surprisingly spacious.

natural