What is another common name for the steering oar in a lifeboat?

The term "sweep oar" is commonly used to refer to the steering oar in a lifeboat. This is because a sweep oar is designed to be used primarily for steering and maneuvering the vessel rather than for regular propulsion like traditional rowing. The wider blade of a sweep oar allows for more control over the boat's direction, making it particularly effective when navigating in tight spots or in rough conditions.

In contrast, other options like "paddle oar," "steering paddle," and "rowing oar" generally refer to different types of oars or paddles that are primarily used for propulsion. A paddle oar suggests a more typically shaped oar used for paddling, while a rowing oar is designed for forward propulsion and does not necessarily imply steering capabilities. The term "steering paddle" also may suggest a functionality more aligned with paddling rather than the unique steering capabilities that a sweep oar provides. Therefore, "sweep oar" is the most accurate terminology in the context of steering a lifeboat.