keel; fossil bones; main structural member
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesnoun
keel; breastbone of a bird
technicalIn ornithology, specifically refers to the large, ridge-like sternum of flying birds where flight muscles attach.
The albatross has a highly developed keel, suitable for long-distance gliding.
When observing a pigeon specimen, you can clearly see the raised keel on its chest.
noun
fossil bones (of ancient mammals); 'dragon bones'
technicalIn traditional Chinese medicine, refers to fossilized bones of ancient large mammals, historically believed to have medicinal properties.
This traditional Chinese medicine contains powdered 'dragon bones' (fossil bones).
The 'dragon bones' discovered by archaeologists were identified as fossilized bones of an ancient mammoth.
noun
keel; backbone; main structural member
technicalThe primary longitudinal structural element of a ship's hull, an aircraft's fuselage, or a building's frame.
The keel of the new ship has been laid.
The steel structural backbone of this large stadium is very sturdy.
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The aircraft's keel is crucial during the manufacturing process.