drop keel

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Word: Drop Keel

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A drop keel is a special type of fin keel found on sailboats. It can be pulled up or down. When it is down, it helps the boat stay stable and prevents it from drifting sideways in the water.

Usage Instructions:

• The term "drop keel" is mainly used in sailing and boating contexts.
• It is a technical term, so it is mostly used by people who sail or work with boats.

Example Sentence:

• "The sailboat's drop keel was lowered to help it sail smoothly through the strong winds."

Advanced Usage:

• In advanced sailing discussions, one might talk about the advantages of a drop keel in terms of stability and performance in various water conditions. For example: "The drop keel allows for better upwind sailing, as it increases the boat's lateral resistance."

Word Variants:

• Keel: The main structural element of a boat that runs along the bottom. Not all keels are drop keels.
• Fin Keel: A type of keel that is shaped like a fin, which can be found on many modern sailboats.

Different Meanings:

• The term "drop" can refer to letting something fall or descend. However, in this context, it specifically refers to the action of lowering the keel.

Synonyms:

• Retractable keel (more general)
• Swing keel (another type of movable keel)

Related Terms:

• Leeward: The direction away from the wind.
• Drifting: Moving slowly away from a position, often caused by wind or currents.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "drop keel." However, you might come across phrases like "to drop anchor," which means to secure a boat in one place.

Summary:

A drop keel is an important part of sailing technology that helps keep boats stable and prevents them from drifting sideways.

Academic

Noun

1. a retractable fin keel used on sailboats to prevent drifting to leeward

Synonyms

• centerboard
• centreboard
• sliding keel