main deck

American  

noun

Nautical.

1. the uppermost weatherproof deck, running the full length of a ship.

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main deck British  

noun

1. the uppermost sheltered deck that runs the entire length of a vessel

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Etymology

Origin of main deck

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

"Today's world needs signs and testimonies that give hope more than words," he said in an impromptu speech in English on the main deck.

From Barron's • Oct. 18, 2025

On Monday, the EU’s military operation in the region said several fires were continuing to burn on the tanker’s main deck, though there were no visible signs that an oil spill was already occurring.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2024

Conter was a quartermaster, standing on the main deck of the Arizona as Japanese planes flew overhead at 7:55 a.m. on Dec. 7 that year.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 1, 2024

Ultimately, ATF investigators focused on a 23-gallon Rubbermaid Slim Jim garbage bin that sat beneath the stairs of the main deck.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 2, 2023

Jules and the others brought the crate from the hold and heaved it onto the main deck before the mate dismissed them.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee