SLIDING KEEL Meaning and
Definition
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A sliding keel refers to a type of keel mechanism commonly used in sailing boats and yachts. It is a vertically adjustable appendage located on the bottom of the vessel that plays a crucial role in enhancing its stability, maneuverability, and overall sailing performance.
The sliding keel is designed to move up and down along a track or guide, which allows it to be raised or lowered as per the specific sailing conditions. When the keel is fully extended, it improves the boat's resistance to sideways forces, known as lateral resistance, and aids in counteracting the sideways drift caused by wind or current. This provides the vessel with better upwind sailing capabilities and prevents it from slipping sideways.
Conversely, when the keel is partially or fully retracted, it reduces the draft of the boat, enabling it to navigate shallow waters with ease. This adjustability is particularly useful in situations where there are navigational restrictions or when the boat needs to access shallow anchorages or harbors.
Sliding keels often consist of a heavy lead or cast iron bulb at the bottom, which provides ballast to increase the boat's stability. The keel is typically controlled using a winch or a hydraulic mechanism located within the boat's hull.
In summary, a sliding keel is an adjustable appendage found on sailing boats that can be raised or lowered along a track. It enhances stability, lateral resistance, and maneuverability by providing additional weight and countering sideways forces. This mechanism allows boats to navigate shallow waters when retracted and improves sailing performance when extended.
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In a ship, a narrow oblong frame used to deepen the draught and sustain a ship against the force of a side wind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SLIDING KEEL
- aliding keel
- zliding keel
- xliding keel
- dliding keel
- eliding keel
- wliding keel
- skiding keel
- spiding keel
- soiding keel
- sluding keel
- sljding keel
- slkding keel
- sloding keel
- sl9ding keel
- sl8ding keel
- slising keel
- slixing keel
- slicing keel
- slifing keel
Etymology of SLIDING KEEL
The phrase "sliding keel" is comprised of two words with distinct etymologies:
1. Sliding: The term "slide" originated in Middle English (circa 1200-1500) from the Old English word "slīdan", meaning "to move smoothly or effortlessly". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Dutch word "sliden" and the German word "gleiten". The general sense of gliding or slipping motion has remained consistent throughout its evolution.
2. Keel: The word "keel" dates back to Old English as well, with the spelling "cēol". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Germanic word "*keluz", meaning "ship or barge". The term also exists in Old Norse as "kjölr" and in Old High German as "kiol".
Similar spelling words for SLIDING KEEL
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