ALL meanings of bilge keel
bilge keel
B b - noun bilge keel one of two keel-like projections along the bilges of some vessels to improve sideways stability 3
- noun bilge keel a projecting strip of metal or wood fastened lengthwise on either side of a ship's bottom to prevent heavy rolling, damage to the bilges, etc. 3
- noun bilge keel either of two keellike projections extending lengthwise along a ship's bilge, one on each side, to retard rolling. 1
- noun bilge keel (nautical) a strake, or small keel or blister, running along much of the length of the hull. It is used to reduce the hull's tendency to roll. They are typically fitted one on each side, low down on the side of the hull, so as not to increase the draft of the vessel. In battleships they were often quite large and used as part of the torpedo protection system. 0