voyage
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈɔɪɪdʒ/
US
- /ˈvɔɪədʒ/
- /ˈvɔɪɪdʒ/
Description
- long journey
- sea trip
- space journey
- expedition
A voyage is a long journey, most often by sea or through space. The word often brings to mind explorers crossing oceans or astronauts traveling far from Earth, so it can sound grand and full of adventure. Still, it does not always mean discovery or danger; it can simply mean a long trip with a clear sense of distance and purpose. Compared with a common trip, a voyage usually feels longer, deeper, and more memorable. The word often carries images of open water, distant horizons, and travel into the unknown.
The word "voyage" describes a long journey, usually by sea or through space, though it can also be used in a broader or metaphorical way. It often suggests more than simple movement from one place to another. A voyage can feel important because of its length, distance, or sense of purpose, but it does not have to involve discovery or danger.
Historically, "voyage" was closely linked to travel by ship. You can think of long ocean crossings, trading journeys, or famous expeditions made by early explorers. These were not short everyday trips; they usually took time and carried people far from home. Even today, the word still fits naturally in phrases like "sea voyage" or "space voyage," where the idea is extended travel over a great distance.
But "voyage" does not have to be physical. Someone might speak of a voyage of learning, a spiritual voyage, or a personal voyage through a major stage of life. In these cases, the word keeps the feeling of a long path with change, effort, or reflection along the way.
The word often carries a sense of scale and importance. It can sound poetic, serious, or adventurous, depending on the context. So when you hear "voyage," think of a long journey that feels larger and more meaningful than an ordinary trip, especially one across the sea, through space, or through an important part of life.
Examples
- 1
Sea travel
She had never been on a long sea voyage before.
- 2
Ocean crossing
After a six-week voyage across the Atlantic, the sailors were exhausted.
- 3
First trip
The new cruise ship had to delay its maiden voyage because of engine trouble.
Phrase
maiden voyage
the first trip made by a ship, plane, or spacecraft
- 4
Space travel
Scientists are studying the effects of long space voyages on the body.
- 5
Literary verb
For centuries, traders voyaged along this coast in search of spices.
Usage
voyage can also be a verb in formal or literary English
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- voyagenounverb
Forms
- voyagespluralnounverb
- voyaging-ing formverbnoun
- voyagedpast tenseverbnoun