Long beam along the bottom of a boat

Stumped by “Long beam along the bottom of a boat“? Let’s Crack This Crossword Clue!

Ah, the crossword puzzle. A delightful brain teaser, a relaxing pastime, or a source of utter frustration depending on the clue. Today, we tackle a nautical one that’s sent many solvers scrambling for their dictionaries (or their Google searches): “Long beam along the bottom of a boat.”

This clue plays on our knowledge of nautical terminology. It’s a fairly straightforward description, painting a clear picture of a specific part of a ship’s structure. However, the precision of the wording makes it slightly harder than a more general clue. We need to be thinking about the
function
of this beam, its
location
, and its
length
– all three aspects are key to unlocking the answer.

Let’s break down why this clue is so effective:

Specificity:

“Long beam” immediately eliminates smaller structural components. We’re not looking for something insignificant; this is a major element.

Location:

“Along the bottom of a boat” narrows down the possibilities significantly. This tells us it’s a horizontal support, not a vertical one.

Implied Strength:

The word “beam” itself suggests a strong, load-bearing element. It wouldn’t be used to describe a flimsy piece of wood or metal.

To find the solution, consider the various parts of a boat and their function. Think about the stresses and forces a boat endures, and how it needs to be supported to withstand them. Remember the importance of weight distribution and the need for structural integrity. Do you know any long, horizontal beams commonly found in boat construction designed specifically to handle significant weight?

Consider the different types of vessels; a small sailboat will have different structural components compared to a large cargo ship. The answer applies generally, but knowing the scale can also help.

This clue requires a bit of lateral thinking, using our general knowledge of boats and combining that with the precise language of the clue itself. Good luck! Let me know in the comments if you’ve cracked it! I look forward to seeing your solutions. And remember, even experienced solvers sometimes need a little help! Happy puzzling!

Available Answers:

Keel.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Daily Celebrity Crossword – 11/16/24 Smartypants Saturday