How Do You Spell GARBOARD PLANK?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈɑːbɔːd plˈaŋk] (IPA)

The garboard plank is a key component of traditional wooden boat construction, forming the lowest part of the hull. The spelling of this term may seem unusual to those unfamiliar with nautical terminology, but it actually follows the rules of English spelling quite logically. The first syllable, "gar," is pronounced with a short a sound, like the word "car." The second syllable, "board," is pronounced as expected with a long o sound. Finally, "plank" is pronounced with a short a sound, like the word "shank." Together, these three sounds create the distinct spelling of "garboard plank."

GARBOARD PLANK Meaning and Definition

1. A garboard plank refers to a specific part of a wooden boat's hull construction. It is the first plank that is attached to the bottom of the vessel, running along its entire length from the stern to the bow, just above the keel. The term "garboard" is derived from the Old English word "gerbord," which means "near the edge."

   Traditionally, garboard planks were known for their sturdy construction, as they were situated in a crucial position where the hull endures the highest level of stress. By being located near the edge, they provide essential foundational support to the rest of the planks, contributing to the overall structural integrity of the boat. The garboard plank is usually wider than the other planks to handle greater pressure and is commonly fastened to the ribs of the wooden frame using copper rivets or screws.

   Due to their positioning, garboard planks are especially susceptible to wear and tear, making them prime candidates for rot and damage, particularly if they are not adequately protected against moisture and exposure to the elements. In modern boat manufacturing techniques, garboard planks are still utilized in traditional wooden boat construction or as a nod to nautical heritage in more contemporary vessel designs. However, with the widespread use of other materials in boat construction, such as fiberglass and aluminum, the term "garboard plank" is occasionally used generically to refer to the first plank or the plating material on the bottom of any boat.

Common Misspellings for GARBOARD PLANK

• farboard plank
• varboard plank
• barboard plank
• harboard plank
• yarboard plank
• tarboard plank
• gzrboard plank
• gsrboard plank
• gwrboard plank
• gqrboard plank
• gaeboard plank
• gadboard plank
• gafboard plank
• gatboard plank
• ga5board plank
• ga4board plank
• garvoard plank
• garnoard plank
• garhoard plank

Etymology of GARBOARD PLANK

The word "garboard plank" is derived from Old English and Middle English terms.

The term "garboard" comes from the Old English word "gearwe" which means "row" or "series". The term evolved into "garbard" in Middle English and eventually became "garboard" as we know it today.

The term "plank" comes from the Middle English word "planke" which means "board" or "plank". It can be traced back to the Old Norse word "planki" and the Old High German word "planch", both meaning "plank" or "board".

Putting the two words together, "garboard plank" refers to the plank or board that is nearest to the keel of a ship or boat. It typically runs along the length of the vessel and is an important structural component.

Similar spelling word for GARBOARD PLANK

• garboard strake.