Chainplate is a nautical term that refers to a metal plate that secures the shrouds or stays of a sailing vessel to the hull. The word is spelled with a "ch" followed by the diphthong "ai" ([tʃeɪn]), indicating that the first syllable is pronounced as "chayn". The second syllable sounds like "plate", with the long "a" sound of "pāt" in IPA ([pleɪt]). When pronounced together, the stress falls on the first syllable: [tʃeɪnpleɪt]. Secure chainplates are crucial to the stability and safety of a sailing vessel.
A chainplate is a structural component commonly found on sailing vessels, particularly sailboats and yachts. It refers to a heavy metal plate or fitting that is securely attached to the hull or deck of the vessel to provide a strong and reliable mounting point for various rigging and hardware.
Typically made of stainless steel or other high-strength alloys, chainplates serve as an anchor point for crucial elements of the boat's rigging system, including shrouds and stays. These metal plates are securely fastened to the hull or deck using strong bolts or through-hull fittings to ensure they can withstand the tremendous forces exerted by the rigging.
The chainplate is specifically designed to distribute the load and stress created by the sail and rigging tensions over a wider area, thereby preventing concentrated pressure points that could potentially damage the vessel's structure. It acts as the link between the rigging and the hull, transferring forces from the mast to the vessel's framework.
Chainplates are typically positioned at strategic points along the vessel's sides or at the bow and stern, where they connect to various points of the rigging system. Their size, shape, and positioning depend on the specific design and configuration of the boat's rigging.
Regular inspection and maintenance of chainplates are crucial to ensure their integrity and reliability. Any signs of corrosion, fatigue, or damage should be promptly addressed to prevent potential failure and to maintain the overall safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.
The word "chainplate" has its origins in the 17th century and is a combination of two words: "chain" and "plate".
The word "chain" comes from the Old English word "cæġen", which originally meant a series of connected metal links. This word has Germanic roots, ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "kaiganan", which also meant "chain".
The word "plate" comes from the Old French word "plat", which means "flat", "level", or "plate". It can be traced back to the Latin word "plattus", meaning "flat".
So, when combined, the word "chainplate" refers to a flat metal plate or bracket used to secure or attach a chain. In nautical terminology, it specifically refers to the metal plates to which the shrouds (supporting cables) of a sailing ship are attached.