deadlight
/'dedlait/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A strong, fixed, or hinged cover or shutter, typically made of metal or heavy wood, designed to be securely closed over a ship's porthole (window) to protect it from damage during storms or heavy seas.
Usage
- Noun:
- The primary function of a deadlight is for safety and protection. It is not a window itself but a protective cover for a porthole. It is sealed shut to prevent water from entering the ship and to protect the glass from being shattered by waves or debris.
Examples
- Noun:
- The crew secured the deadlights before the hurricane hit.
- Heavy seas forced us to close all the deadlights on the lower deck.
- The old schooner's brass deadlights were still in working order.
Advanced Usage
- "To batten down the deadlights": A phrase related to preparing a ship for severe weather, involving securing all protective covers, including deadlights.
- The captain ordered the crew to batten down the deadlights as the storm approached.
Variants and Related Words
- Storm shutter: A more general term for a protective cover over an opening, often used on buildings as well as ships.
- Portlight: Sometimes used interchangeably with 'porthole', but a portlight typically refers to the glazed window itself, whereas a deadlight is its solid cover.
Synonyms
- Port cover: A direct synonym for a cover over a porthole.
- Storm cover: Emphasizes its use in stormy conditions.
Related Phrases
- "Close the deadlights": The standard instruction to secure the protective covers.
- The first mate shouted, "Close the deadlights!" as a large wave crashed against the hull.
Noun
- a strong shutter over a ship's porthole that is closed in stormy weather