keel
/kiːl/ · keel
noun
- The bottom-most longitudinal structure of a ship or boat, running along its centerline. The keel of the sailboat was damaged in the storm.
- A longitudinal structure in the hull of an aircraft, typically at the center of the fuselage. The keel of the plane was reinforced to improve stability.
- Red chalk; ruddle. The artist used keel to draw the outline of the portrait.
- A longitudinal ridge or groove in a surface, such as a road or a runway. The keel of the highway was worn down from years of heavy traffic.
verb
- To mark or draw with ruddle. The artist keeled the outline of the portrait with precision.
Did you know? The word 'keel' has been used in various contexts, including shipbuilding, art, and even music, where a 'keelhaul' refers to a type of musical phrase or rhythm.