gunwale etymology

Etymology:

The word "gunwale" comes from the Old Norse word "gunnr" (battle) and "veill" (wall).

Meaning:

The gunwale is the upper edge of the side of a boat, where the hull meets the deck. It is also known as the gunnel.

Origin:

The term "gunwale" emerged in the early 16th century, when cannon were mounted on ships. The gunners needed a platform to fire from, and the gunwale provided a stable and elevated position. It is thought that the term "gunwale" refers to the ship's side, which was like a "wall" protecting the gunners during battle.

Usage:

Today, the gunwale is an essential part of a boat's structure. It provides support for the deck, prevents water from entering the boat, and serves as a handhold for passengers and boat operators.

Additional Information:

• The gunwale is often reinforced with a metal or plastic band to increase its strength and durability.
• The height of the gunwale can vary depending on the type of boat. Smaller boats typically have lower gunwales, while larger boats often have higher gunwales for increased stability.
• The gunwale is an important safety feature on boats, as it helps to prevent passengers from falling overboard.

gunwale relate terms

• bane

  Etymology The word bane is derived from the Old English word bana which means destr

• Hilda

  Etymology Germanic hild battle gifu gift Meaning Battle gift or Gift

• wale

  Etymology The word wale has multiple etymological origins Old English wæle Mean

• rest

  Etymology The word rest originates from the Old English word restan which means to

• sonnet

  Etymology The word sonnet derives from the Occitan word sonet or sonet meaning li

• respite

  Etymology of Respite The word respite comes from the Latin word respicere meaning t

• apparition

  Etymology The word apparition derives from the Latin appārēre meaning to appear

• delta

  Etymology Greek δέλτα delta Meaning The fourth letter of the Greek alphabe

• inexorable

  Etymology The word inexorable comes from the Latin word inexorabilis which means u

• gentile

  Etymology The word gentile originates from the Latin word gens which means nation

• sober

  Etymology Late 14th century from Middle English sobur from Old French sobre from Lat

• heel

  Etymology The word heel derives from the Old English word hǣl which is of uncertain o

• cringe

  Etymology of Cringe Cringe originates from the Middle English term cringen which f