carling
(noun)
ˈkɑːrlɪŋ
Definitions
-
A piece of timber or metal supporting a structure, particularly in a ship, horizontally.
A steadfast spine beneath the creaking bones of the ship, holding dreams above the abyssal depths.Example: The crew checked the state of the carling to ensure the deck was properly supported.
Origin
Late Middle English, probably from Old Norse 'kerling' meaning 'old woman', but also used to mean 'support beam'.
Synonyms
beam, joist, support