Definition

Noun: 1. A structural support on a vessel: A skeg is a brace, fin, or projection that extends downwards from the rear (stern) of a vessel's keel. Its primary function is to support and protect the rudderpost (the shaft on which the rudder turns) and to improve directional stability in the water.

Usage

The term "skeg" is a specialized nautical term used primarily in the contexts of boatbuilding, sailing, and marine engineering. It describes a specific part of a vessel's hull.

Examples: * The boat's skeg was damaged when it ran aground on the rocky shore. * Kayaks and surfboards often have a fixed skeg to help them track straight. * The engineer inspected the skeg where it supports the rudder assembly.

Advanced Usage

• In small craft and surfboards: In contexts like kayaking, canoeing, and surfing, a "skeg" (often synonymous with "fin") refers to a fixed or retractable vertical foil at the stern, used to prevent sideways slippage (leeway) and aid in maintaining a straight course (tracking).
• In outboard motors: The fixed vertical fin on the lower unit of an outboard motor, located just ahead of the propeller, is also called a skeg. It aids in steering stability and protects the propeller from underwater obstacles.

Variants and Related Words

• Skegged (adj): Describes a vessel that is equipped with a skeg.
  • The traditional design is double-ended and skegged for better handling.
• Keel (n): The central structural base or spine of a ship's hull, running along the bottom from bow to stern, from which the skeg may extend.
• Rudderpost (n): The shaft or post on which the rudder is mounted and pivots; the component the skeg often supports.
• Fin (n): A general term for a projecting surface; in nautical contexts, it can be synonymous with skeg, especially for small craft.

Synonyms

• Brace
• Support
• Fin (in the context of small craft)

Related Phrases

• Skeg shoe: A protective metal plate or fitting attached to the bottom of a skeg to prevent wear or damage.
  • The old wooden skeg was fitted with a bronze skeg shoe.
• Skeg-hung rudder: A type of rudder that is mounted on and supported by a skeg, as opposed to a spade rudder which is unsupported.
  • Many blue-water cruising sailboats use a skeg-hung rudder for its robustness.

Noun

1. a brace that extends from the rear of the keel to support the rudderpost