COMMONLY USED TERMS, DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONSīelow are some commonly used terms and definitions that you may find useful as you browse our website.īallast – A heavy substance used to improve stability and control the draft of a vessel.īeam – The breadth of a vessel also, a main support running from side to side of a vessel supporting the deck.īowsprit – A structure projecting forward from the bow.
