What is "azipod"

n. (context nautical English) an azimuth thruster, an engine and ships' propeller in an underslung pod that is azimuth adjustable, to replace a fixed-azimuth propeller and rudder configuration

Azipod is the registered brand name for ABB Group's range of electric podded azimuth thrusters. Developed in Finland jointly by the shipbuilding company Masa-Yards and ABB, Azipod is a marine propulsion unit consisting of a fixed pitch propeller mounted on a steerable gondola ("pod") which also contains the electric motor driving the propeller.