Pronunciation: [stɹˈe͡ɪk] (IPA) 
The word "strake" is spelled with five letters: s-t-r-a-k-e. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /streɪk/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "s" is pronounced as /s/, the "t" as /t/, the "r" as /r/, the "a" as /eɪ/, and the "k" as /k/. This word is usually used to refer to a continuous strip of planking or metal, typically used to protect a ship's hull.
The term "strake" refers to a nautical and engineering-related concept. It is primarily used in the context of shipbuilding and boat construction but can also have applications in aerospace and other industries.
A "strake" is a longitudinal strip, plank, or plate that is typically made of wood, metal, or fiberglass and is utilized to form the outer structure or cladding of a vessel's hull. It predominantly aids in strengthening and providing structural integrity to the ship's framework. Strakes are often installed parallel to each other, running from the bow to the stern of a ship, and can be found on both sides of the hull or at the keel.
The purpose of a strake is to distribute water pressure and reduce frictional resistance, serving as a hydrodynamic feature. By shaping the strakes based on specific design principles, shipbuilders aim to achieve desired hydrodynamic performance, such as minimizing drag and improving stability. The size, shape, and number of strakes can vary based on the vessel's purpose, dimensions, and intended operating conditions. In addition to their functional aspects, strakes can also contribute to the aesthetical appeal of a ship's exterior.
In summary, a strake is a structural component of a ship's hull that contributes to its stability, strength, and hydrodynamic performance. It acts as a protective layer and helps distribute water pressure and minimize drag while giving the vessel a distinct appearance.
A narrow board or plank; the tire or iron band of a wheel; in wooden shipbuilding, the term for a line of planking extending from the stem to the stern.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "strake" has its origins in Middle English. It can be traced back to the Old English word "strica", which means "a stroke or a line". This Old English term is related to the Proto-Germanic word "strikon", which signifies "a stroke or a blow". Ultimately, the word "strake" can be connected to the Proto-Indo-European root "*st(e)ig-", meaning "to go, to stride". Over time, "strake" has undergone various shifts in meaning and usage, and it now refers to a continuous line or planking in shipbuilding or to a strip of protective material on the edge of a vehicle.
