freeboard
/ˈfriːbɔːrd/
noun
- The distance between the waterline and the upper deck of a ship or boat, measured at the side.
- A high freeboard helps keep a boat stable in rough seas.
- The captain checked the freeboard to ensure the vessel wasn't overloaded.
- The ship's freeboard was reduced as it took on cargo.
- The amount by which something, such as a wall or structure, extends above a given level or surface.
- The freeboard of the dam wall prevents water from spilling over during floods.
- Engineers calculated the freeboard needed for the retaining wall.
- The pool's freeboard is the distance from the water surface to the top edge.