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chine

chine

1 9.5
A sharp angle on the hull of a boat that helps it move through water
  • noun
  • /tʃaɪn/
  • UK
translation icon : arista
  • The boat's design features wide chine flats that enhance stability while sailing.
  • hull with chines
  • hard chines
  • chines provide stability

Examples

  • The fisherman admired the deep chine of the river valley as he set up his gear.

  • You do know you need to bevel these chines.

  • On the model boat, the sharp chine creates a distinct edge that improves its performance on the water.

Compounds

crepe de Chine
  • Specialized
1 8.8

A thin lightweight silk fabric with a slightly crinkled surface used for dresses and blouses

How Steep

precipice
27 7.4
cliff
438 1.0
chine
  • UK
1 9.5
gully
27 4.7
slope
101 1.4

Surface Forms

chine singular
chines plural

Etymology

Chine in nautical use comes from the idea of a 'back' or 'ridge', so a boat's chine is the sharp edge where the hull turns, like the hull's backbone that helps it turn and stay stable.