SOUNDING LINE Meaning and
Definition
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A sounding line is a device used to measure the depth of water below a ship or boat. It consists of a long, strong, and flexible line, typically made of cotton or hemp, with a weight attached to one end. The line is marked at regular intervals, usually with knots or colored thread, to indicate the depth reached when the weight touches the seabed.
The sounding line is an important tool for navigation and safety, particularly in open waters or unfamiliar areas where accurate charts or depth maps may be lacking. By heaving or throwing the line overboard and allowing it to sink, sailors and navigators can determine the depth of the water and avoid running aground.
Sounding lines have been used for centuries, predating modern electronic sonar devices. They were traditionally made from natural materials such as animal gut or coconut fiber. However, today, synthetic fibers like nylon or polypropylene are commonly used due to their durability and resistance to water damage.
In addition to measuring depth, the sounding line can also be used to estimate the nature of the seabed. By analyzing the material that clings to the line when it is raised, sailors can identify whether the bottom is composed of sand, mud, rocks, or other elements.
Overall, the sounding line remains a valuable tool for maritime exploration, surveying, and navigation, providing crucial depth information to ensure the safe transit of vessels in various waterways around the world.
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A line used to take soundings.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SOUNDING LINE
- aounding line
- zounding line
- xounding line
- dounding line
- eounding line
- wounding line
- siunding line
- skunding line
- slunding line
- spunding line
- s0unding line
- s9unding line
- soynding line
- sohnding line
- sojnding line
- soinding line
- so8nding line
- so7nding line
- soubding line
Etymology of SOUNDING LINE
The word "sounding line" has its origin in the maritime domain. It can be broken down into two parts: "sounding" and "line".
1. "Sounding": The term "sounding" comes from the Old English word "sund", which means "depth" or "the act of measuring depth". This word has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "sundiō" meaning "swimming" or "a journey".
2. "Line": The word "line" comes from the Old English "līne", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "līna". This word referred to a "rope" or a "cord".
Combining these two parts, "sounding" and "line", the term "sounding line" refers to a rope or cord that is used for measuring the depth of water.
Similar spelling words for SOUNDING LINE
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