Definition

1. 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

1. a strong shutter over a ship's porthole that is closed in stormy weather