Shipbuilding Terms

noun a projecting rim or edge on a pipe, cylinder, or beam, especially to strengthen it or to attach it to another object

• The engineer carefully measured the dimensions of the flange before attaching it to the pipe.
• Make sure you tighten the bolts on the flange securely to prevent any leaks.
• I accidentally bumped into the flange and now it's all out of whack.
• The team leader acted as the flange, connecting different departments to work together seamlessly.

noun a large, complex piece of equipment or machinery

verb to manipulate or control dishonestly for personal gain

• The engineers worked tirelessly to construct the oil rig in the middle of the ocean.
• I heard they're setting up a new rig for drilling in the next town over.
• Let's hit the rig and see if we can catch some fish for dinner.
• She's always rigging the game in her favor, it's not fair to the rest of us.

noun a valve or faucet used to control the flow of water on a boat or ship

• The sea cock on the ship needed to be inspected regularly to ensure it was functioning properly.
• Make sure to check the sea cock before setting sail to avoid any issues out at sea.
• I wouldn't trust that old sea cock, better to replace it with a new one.
• His ability to navigate rough waters was like a well-oiled sea cock, always reliable in times of trouble.

adverb toward the stern of a ship or aircraft

preposition in the direction of the stern of a ship or aircraft

• The lifeboat is located abaft of the main deck.
• You can find the restroom abaft the dining area.
• Let's hang out abaft the school after classes.
• His true intentions were hidden abaft a facade of friendliness.

noun a cabin or compartment in the stern of a ship, especially one used by the officers.

• The afterhouse on the ship is where the crew's personal belongings are stored.
• Let's meet at the afterhouse after our shift ends.
• I left my phone in the afterhouse, can you grab it for me?
• His mind was like an afterhouse, cluttered with memories of the past.

noun the mast situated aft or rearward on a ship

• The aftermast of the ship was damaged during the storm.
• I saw some seagulls perched on the aftermast of the boat.
• Let's hang out by the aftermast and enjoy the view.
• She felt like she was clinging to the aftermast of life, barely holding on.