# bulkhead

/ˈbəɫkˌhɛd/ (US) · /bˈʌlkhɛd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bulkhead
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a strong wall inside a ship or plane that divides the space into separate sections. It helps keep the vessel safe if one part starts to leak.

For teachers: a partition or wall within a ship or aircraft that divides the interior into watertight or airtight compartments. Often reinforced to provide structural integrity and prevent the spread of water or fire.

## Examples

- The crew sealed the bulkhead to stop the water from spreading.
- Modern aircraft are designed with multiple bulkheads to ensure that a single structural failure does not compromise the entire fuselage.
- The ship's hull was divided by several reinforced bulkheads, a design choice that significantly increased its chances of staying afloat after the collision.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.