ˈtafrə̇l; ˈtaˌfrāl, ˈtaiˌf- noun
also taf·fer·el ˈtaf(ə)rə̇l
( -s )
Etymology: taffrail alteration (influenced by rail ) of tafferel; tafferel from Dutch tafereel, from Middle Dutch, picture, from Old French tablel picture, tableau — more at tableau
1. : the upper flat part of the stern of a wooden ship often ornamented with carvings
2. : a rail around the stern of a ship