Keelson

Origin

First attested from 1611. Compare with Dutch kolzwijn (""), kolsem (""), Low German, kielswîn (""), German Kielschwein (""), Danish kølsvin (""), kölsvin (""), all with the same meaning. First part is keel while the second part is uncertain; possibly sill.

Full definition of keelson

Noun

1. (nautical) A longitudinal beam fastened on top of the keel of a vessel for strength and stiffness.