# keel

/ˈkiɫ/ (US) · /kˈiːl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/keel
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the long piece of wood or metal along the bottom of a boat that helps it stay stable and straight in the water.

For teachers: the longitudinal structural member along the base of a ship's hull, providing stability and structural integrity. In botany, refers to the two lowest petals of a pea flower that are joined together.

## Examples

- The ship's keel hit a rock in the shallow water.
- The shipwright inspected the keel for damage before the vessel was cleared for its maiden voyage across the Atlantic.
- By lowering the heavy keel, the designers ensured the yacht would remain upright even when subjected to the forceful lateral pressures of a gale-force wind.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the idiom 'on an even keel' to describe a stable or calm situation.

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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.