The term RELATIVE OF A PADDLE can be solved by the three-letter word OAR. An OAR is a long, flat piece of wood or other material used to propel a boat through the water. It is typically held in both hands and moved in a circular motion, with one end in the water and the other end in the air. Oars are often used in pairs, with one OAR on each side of the boat. They are related to paddles, which are also used to propel boats, but paddles are usually held in one hand and moved back and forth in the water.