bulkhead

American  

[buhlk-hed] / ˈbʌlkˌhɛd /

noun

1. Nautical. any of various wall-like constructions inside a vessel, as for forming watertight compartments, subdividing space, or strengthening the structure.

2. Aeronautics. a transverse partition or reinforcing frame in the body of an airplane.

3. Civil Engineering.

   1. a partition built in a subterranean passage to prevent the passage of air, water, or mud.

   2. a retaining structure of timber, steel, or reinforced concrete, used for shore protection and in harbor works.

4. Building Trades.

   1. a horizontal or inclined outside door over a stairway leading to a cellar.

   2. a boxlike structure, as on a roof, covering a stairwell or other opening.

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bulkhead British  

/ ˈbʌlkˌhɛd /

noun

1. any upright wall-like partition in a ship, aircraft, vehicle, etc

2. a wall or partition built to hold back earth, fire, water, etc

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Other Word Forms

• bulkheaded
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of bulkhead

First recorded in 1490–1500; bulk ² + head

Explanation

The divider or wall between sections of a plane or large ship is called a bulkhead. When you're seated in first class on a jet, there's a bulkhead between you and the pilot's cabin. The bulkhead you're most likely to see is in a commercial airliner, dividing the flight crew from the passengers and sometimes the first class flyers from those in coach. Other vehicles have them too, including submarines and ships — these bulkheads help strengthen the vessels and keep different areas watertight. The Old Norse root of bulkhead is bálkr, "partition."

Example Sentences

Battalion 1944 is a competitive first-person shooter game released in April by Bulkhead Interactive that pits five players against five opponents in a WWII-era battle.

From The Verge • Jun. 7, 2018

But, SUSPC7 says, the relationship between him and Bulkhead Interactive has since improved.

From The Verge • Jun. 7, 2018

With so much competition, it’s a minor wonder that Bulkhead Interactive, the Derby-based U.K. studio, has found in “The Turing Test” a meaningful way to explore this motif.

From Washington Post • Sep. 9, 2016

Bulkhead seats are reserved for customers with disabilities up to 24 hours before departure, with remaining seats sold as “Even More Space” seats for $10 to $65 extra.

From New York Times • Nov. 8, 2011

It was well worth sixty pounds; but I over-reach'd Ben Bulkhead, the supercargo.

From The Contrast by Tyler, Royall