Centerboards

/ˈsɛntərboɔːrdz/ noun

Definition

Plural of centerboard; multiple retractable keels used on sailboats and small vessels.

Etymology

Plural of centerboard, maintaining the compound etymology of center + board. The term standardized in nautical vocabulary during the age of sailing ship innovation.

Kelly Says

Different boats need different centerboards—a racing yacht has a different setup than a fishing boat—showing how ancient shipping problems were solved with clever engineering that's still used today.

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