Definition

Noun

  • The method by which a vessel’s planks or plates are fastened to the frames.

Origin

13th century. From the Old English word, faestnian, meaning to fasten.

Comments

Self-explanatory. There’s an entire history of how boats and ships have been constructed over the millennia, and the various ways that planks or plates are fastened together to create a watertight structure.

References

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.