carling
/ˈkɑrlɪŋ/
noun
- A short, strong beam or timber used in shipbuilding to support the deck and distribute loads from masts or other structures.
- During the storm, the carling held firm, preventing the deck from buckling.
- The old wooden carling had to be replaced with a steel one for extra strength.
- The shipwright installed a new carling to reinforce the deck around the mast.