keel Synonyms
Another word for keel
• noun (Context 1)
The central longitudinal structural member at the bottom of a ship's hull, to which the frames are attached and which provides stability.
"The shipbuilders laid the massive oak backbone as the first step in constructing the galleon."
• verb (Context 2)
To fall down or collapse abruptly from exhaustion, illness, or shock.
"After standing in the sweltering heat for three hours, one of the soldiers keeled over onto the pavement."
• verb (Context 3)
To capsize or turn upside down (often used of a boat or ship).
"Caught in the sudden squall, the small fishing boat keeled over and threw its crew into the freezing water."
• noun (Context 4)
A rigid anatomical structure resembling a ship's keel, such as the prominent ridge on the breastbone of flying birds.
"The large carina on the bird's sternum anchors the powerful flight muscles necessary for migration."
• noun (Context 5)
A flat-bottomed boat or lighter historically used for carrying freight, particularly coal, on rivers.
"Dozens of traditional keels navigated the river, heavily laden with coal destined for the city."
• verb (Context 6)
To provide a vessel with a keel.
"The shipwrights decided to build the new frigate with sturdy imported teak to resist rot."
Opposites of keel
Looking for antonyms? The opposite of keel varies depending on the context. Here are a few common opposites: