The word "garboard" is often misspelled due to its uncommon pronunciation. The correct IPA transcription is /ˈɡɑːrbərd/ - with the stress on the first syllable and a silent "d" at the end. It refers to the plank adjacent to the keel of a boat, which is crucial for the boat's stability. The garboard is responsible for keeping water out and supporting the weight of the boat. With its intricate spelling, garboard is a word that requires careful attention to detail.
Garboard (noun):
1. The term "garboard" refers to the first or the bottommost plank of a wooden boat's hull that runs along the keel. It is usually the widest plank in the hull, extending from the keel to the turn of the bilge. The garboard plays a crucial role in providing strength and stability to the ship's structure, as it connects the keel to the rest of the hull. Traditionally, this plank was crafted from a sturdy and durable wood, such as oak or teak, to withstand the pressures and stresses encountered at the bottom of the boat.
2. In shipbuilding, the garboard can also refer to the seam or the caulking that is found between the garboard plank and the adjacent plank on each side of the hull. The garboard seam requires careful caulking and sealing to ensure that the vessel remains watertight when sailing on water. Typically, this process involves using oakum or another suitable material, which is then coated with tar or pitch to prevent water penetration.
Overall, the garboard plank and seam are essential components that contribute to the structural integrity and protection against water infiltration in a wooden boat's hull. Their proper installation and maintenance are crucial to ensure the vessel's seaworthiness and longevity.
The word garboard comes from Middle English garbord, which was derived from the Old English word gærbord. The Old English word consists of gær, meaning spear or shaft, and bord, meaning board or plank. In nautical terms, the garboard refers to the first plank at the keel of a wooden ship. The term garboard dates back to the late 14th century and has its roots in the Germanic languages, ultimately descending from the Proto-Germanic word garbaudaz.