leeboard

[ lee-bawrd, -bohrd ]

noun

, Nautical.

1. either of two broad, flat objects attached to the sides of a sailing ship amidships, the one on the lee side being lowered into the water to prevent the ship from making leeway.

leeboard

/ ˈliːˌbɔːd /

noun

1. nautical one of a pair of large adjustable paddle-like boards that may be lowered along the lee side to reduce sideways drift or leeway

Word History and Origins

Origin of leeboard¹

1400–50; late Middle English: the lee side of a ship; lee, board

Example Sentences

In rough water a centreboard must strain a boat more than a leeboard does.

From Project Gutenberg

The pleasure of sailing was thus denied to me for several years afterwards, and all through my ignorance of the leeboard.

From Project Gutenberg

As she heels to port she lifts her gleaming side and trails her free leeboard as a bird might stretch a tired wing.

From Project Gutenberg

The leeboard, like a centre board, is of course intended to keep the canoe from sliding off when trying to beat up into the wind.

From Project Gutenberg

The leeboard is a necessary attachment to the sailing outfit.

From Project Gutenberg