Gangway vs. Brow: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 20, 2024
A gangway is a passageway on a ship or between sections of a ship, while a brow is a portable gangplank used for boarding or leaving a ship. Gangway refers to an internal passage, whereas brow refers to an external boarding ramp.
Key Differences
A gangway is an internal passageway on a ship, providing access between different sections, decks, or compartments. A brow, on the other hand, is a portable gangplank or ramp used to board or disembark a ship from the dock. It is typically placed between the ship and the dock, providing a temporary bridge for people to cross.
While a gangway is a permanent structure within the ship's interior, a brow is a temporary, external structure that is set up and removed as needed. Gangways facilitate movement within the ship, whereas brows enable boarding and disembarkation from the dock.
In terms of usage, gangways are part of the ship's infrastructure, used during voyages and while docked. Brows are specifically used during docking procedures to ensure safe access to the ship. Both are vital for the efficient and safe operation of maritime activities.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Internal passageway on a ship
Portable gangplank for boarding/disembarking
Location
Inside the ship
Between ship and dock
ADVERTISEMENT
Purpose
Provide access between sections/decks
Facilitate boarding and disembarkation
Permanence
Permanent part of the ship's structure
Temporary structure set up as needed
Usage Context
Used during voyages and while docked
Used specifically during docking
Function
Internal movement
External access
Gangway and Brow Definitions
Gangway
A passageway within a ship that provides access between different sections or decks.
The crew moved swiftly through the gangway to reach the engine room.
ADVERTISEMENT
Brow
An external structure facilitating access to the ship from the shore.
Dockworkers positioned the brow as the ship approached the harbor.
Gangway
An internal walkway facilitating movement on the ship.
Passengers navigated the narrow gangway to find their cabins.
Brow
A removable ramp used during docking procedures.
The brow was carefully aligned with the ship's entrance.
Gangway
A safety feature allowing easy access between compartments.
Fire drills on the ship included practicing evacuation through the gangway.
Brow
A portable ramp or gangplank used for boarding or leaving a ship.
The sailors lowered the brow to allow passengers to disembark.
Gangway
A passage along either side of a ship's upper deck.
Brow
A temporary bridge placed between a ship and the dock.
The brow was secured to ensure safe boarding from the pier.
Gangway
See gangplank.
Brow
The superciliary ridge over the eyes.
Gangway
An opening in the bulwark of a ship through which passengers may board.
Brow
The eyebrow.
Gangway
A narrow passageway, as of boards laid on the ground.
Brow
The forehead.
Gangway
The main level of a mine.
Brow
A facial expression; countenance
"Speak you this with a sad brow?" (Shakespeare).
Gangway
The aisle that divides the front and rear seating sections of the House of Commons.
Brow
The projecting upper edge of a steep place
The brow of a hill.
Gangway
An aisle between seating sections, as in a theater.
Brow
The ridge over the eyes; the eyebrow.
Gangway
Used to clear a passage through a crowded area.
Brow
The first tine of an antler's beam.
Gangway
A passageway through which to enter or leave, such as one between seating areas in an auditorium, or between two buildings.
Brow
The forehead.
Gangway
An articulating bridge or ramp, such as from land to a dock or a ship.
Brow
The projecting upper edge of a steep place such as a hill.
The brow of a precipice
Gangway
A temporary passageway, such as one made of planks.
Brow
(mining) A gallery in a coal mine running across the face of the coal.
Gangway
A clear path through a crowd or a passageway with people.
Brow
(figurative) Aspect; appearance.
Gangway
(British) An aisle.
Brow
(nautical) The gangway from ship to shore when a ship is lying alongside a quay.
Gangway
(nautical) A passage along either side of a ship's upper deck.
Brow
(nautical) The hinged part of a landing craft or ferry which is lowered to form a landing platform; a ramp.
Gangway
(nautical) A passage through the side of a ship or an opening in the railing through which the ship may be boarded.
Brow
To bound or limit; to be at, or form, the edge of.
Gangway
(agriculture) An earthen and plank ramp leading from the stable yard into the upper storey or mow of a dairy barn.
Brow
The prominent ridge over the eye, with the hair that covers it, forming an arch above the orbit.
And his arched brow, pulled o'er his eyes,With solemn proof proclaims him wise.
Gangway
(Chicago) The narrow space between two buildings or houses, used to access the backyard/alleyway from the front.
Brow
The hair that covers the brow (ridge over the eyes); the eyebrow.
'T is not your inky brows, your brack silk hair.
Gangway
A passageway through a passenger car
Brow
The forehead; as, a feverish brow.
Beads of sweat have stood upon thy brow.
Gangway
To serve as, furnish with, or conduct oneself as though proceeding on a gangway.
Brow
The general air of the countenance.
To whom thus Satan with contemptuous brow.
He told them with a masterly brow.
Gangway
(to a crowd) Make way! Clear a path!
Brow
The edge or projecting upper part of a steep place; as, the brow of a precipice; the brow of a hill.
Gangway
A passage or way into or out of any inclosed place; esp., a temporary way of access formed of planks.
Brow
To bound to limit; to be at, or form, the edge of.
Tending my flocks hard by i' the hilly croftsThat brow this bottom glade.
Gangway
In the English House of Commons, a narrow aisle across the house, below which sit those who do not vote steadly either with the government or with the opposition.
Brow
The part of the face above the eyes
Gangway
The opening through the bulwarks of a vessel by which persons enter or leave it.
Brow
The arch of hair above each eye
Gangway
That part of the spar deck of a vessel on each side of the booms, from the quarter-deck to the forecastle; - more properly termed the waist.
Brow
The peak of a hill;
The sun set behind the brow of distant hills
Gangway
A temporary passageway of planks (as over mud on a building site)
Brow
A critical safety tool for transferring crew and passengers.
In rough seas, extra care was taken when deploying the brow.
Gangway
A temporary bridge for getting on and off a vessel at dockside
Gangway
Passageway between seating areas as in an auditorium or passenger vehicle or between areas of shelves of goods as in stores
Gangway
A corridor on a ship used for regular traffic.
The gangway was busy as the crew prepared for departure.
Gangway
An essential part of the ship's infrastructure for navigation within the vessel.
Clear signage was posted in the gangway to direct passengers.
FAQs
What is a gangway?
A gangway is an internal passageway on a ship that provides access between different sections or decks.
Where is a brow located?
A brow is located between the ship and the dock, providing external access.
Is a gangway permanent?
Yes, a gangway is a permanent part of the ship's structure.
Where is a gangway located?
A gangway is located inside the ship, connecting various sections and decks.
What is a brow?
A brow is a portable gangplank or ramp used for boarding or leaving a ship from the dock.
What is the purpose of a brow?
The purpose of a brow is to provide safe access to the ship from the dock.
Are brows part of a ship's design?
No, brows are not part of the ship's design but are essential docking equipment.
How are gangways maintained?
Gangways are maintained as part of the ship's regular maintenance routines to ensure safety and functionality.
When is a gangway used?
A gangway is used during voyages and while the ship is docked for internal movement.
When is a brow used?
A brow is used specifically during docking to facilitate boarding and disembarkation.
What is the purpose of a gangway?
The purpose of a gangway is to provide safe and efficient internal movement within the ship.
Can a gangway be used for boarding?
No, a gangway is used for internal movement, not for boarding or disembarking.
Is a brow permanent?
No, a brow is a temporary structure set up and removed as needed.
Can a brow be used for internal movement?
No, a brow is used for external access and is not part of the ship's internal passageways.
Is a gangway used during emergency evacuations?
Yes, gangways are used during emergency evacuations to facilitate movement within the ship.
What materials are brows made from?
Brows are usually made from strong, lightweight materials such as aluminum or composite materials for easy deployment and stability.
Are gangways part of a ship's design?
Yes, gangways are an integral part of a ship's design and infrastructure.
How are brows maintained?
Brows are maintained by dockworkers or the ship's crew to ensure they are safe and operational for boarding and disembarking.
Is a brow used during emergency evacuations?
Yes, a brow can be crucial during emergency evacuations for safe disembarkation.
What materials are gangways made from?
Gangways are typically made from sturdy materials like steel or aluminum to withstand heavy traffic.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
