lowest deck on ship crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "lowest deck on ship crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ORLOP: The lowest deck on a sailing ship, typically below the waterline. It was historically used for storage, housing the cable tier, or as a sick bay, distinct from the ship's hold which is below all decks.
More About "lowest deck on ship crossword"
The term "ORLOP" refers to the lowest deck in a multi-decked sailing vessel. Derived from the Dutch "overloop" (meaning "overlap" or "false deck"), it specifically designated a deck that did not extend the full length of the ship. Located below the waterline, it was one of the most protected areas of the vessel.
Historically, the orlop deck served various crucial functions. On warships, it often housed the cable tier, where anchor cables were stored, or served as a 'sick bay' due to its stable and protected position. For merchant ships, it could be used for general storage of provisions and less critical cargo. Its precise location and function distinguished it from the main decks above and the ship's hold, which was the very bottom space beneath all decks, usually reserved for bulk cargo.
Understanding such specific nautical terms is key to mastering crosswords, as they frequently appear. The distinction between an 'orlop' deck and the 'hold' is a common point of confusion but crucial for accurate puzzle-solving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Embrace Nautical Terms: Crosswords frequently feature ship-related vocabulary. Familiarize yourself with terms like 'abaft,' 'stern,' 'bow,' 'keel,' and various deck names.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. For "lowest deck on ship", knowing it's a 5-letter word immediately narrows down possibilities.
- Consider Historical Context: Many crossword clues, especially those involving specific objects or places, often refer to historical or traditional meanings. The orlop deck, for instance, is a historical ship component.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on "lowest deck on ship", solve intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers can reveal the solution for this one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an orlop deck?
The orlop deck is the lowest deck on a ship, specifically a sailing ship, located below the waterline. Its primary purpose varied but often included storage, housing the cables, or serving as a medical area (sick bay).
Is the ship's 'hold' considered a deck?
While the hold is the lowest cargo space in a ship, it's generally not considered a 'deck' in the same structural sense as an orlop or main deck. Decks are typically floor levels that extend across the ship, whereas the hold is primarily the vast, open space at the very bottom of the hull designed for carrying cargo.
Why are nautical terms common in crosswords?
Nautical terms are frequent in crosswords due to their unique and often specific vocabulary, which lends itself well to concise clues. Many terms, like 'orlop,' 'abaft,' 'starboard,' or 'port,' are distinct and have a rich history, making them excellent candidates for challenging but solvable clues that test a solver's general knowledge.