Definition

Adjective

  • When a vessel is in water shallow enough for soundings to be made.

Origin

Unknown.

Comments

This is traditionally within a depth that can be measured by the lead and line. Usually, this is a depth of 100 fathoms (183 meters/600 feet) which is the edge of the continental shelf. Beyond that, the vessel is out of soundings.

References

Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

King, D., Hattendorf, J.B, & Estes, J.W. (1997). A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O’Brian’s Seafaring Tales (2nd Ed.). Owl Books.