bulkhead

[ buhlk-hed ]

noun

1. Nautical. any of various wall-like constructions inside a vessel, as for forming watertight compartments, subdividing space, or strengthening the structure.
2. Aeronautics. a transverse partition or reinforcing frame in the body of an airplane.
3. Civil Engineering.
   1. a partition built in a subterranean passage to prevent the passage of air, water, or mud.
   2. a retaining structure of timber, steel, or reinforced concrete, used for shore protection and in harbor works.
4. Building Trades.
   1. a horizontal or inclined outside door over a stairway leading to a cellar.
   2. a boxlike structure, as on a roof, covering a stairwell or other opening.

bulkhead

/ ˈbʌlkˌhɛd /

noun

1. any upright wall-like partition in a ship, aircraft, vehicle, etc
2. a wall or partition built to hold back earth, fire, water, etc

Other Words From

• bulkheaded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of bulkhead¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; bulk ² + head

Word History and Origins

Origin of bulkhead¹

C15: probably from bulk projecting framework, from Old Norse bálkr partition + head

Example Sentences

A lot of people go and get food to go at the fish market, and now, if someone gets crabs and shrimp and they’re sitting on the bulkhead, they can get a cocktail from me right there.

From Washington Post

Traps can be placed in tidewater off docks, bulkheads, bridges, and suspended from floats almost anywhere.

From Popular-Science

Nicole LaPorte talks to flight attendants about dirty diapers, bulkhead envy, and more.

From The Daily Beast

He splashed his way up to the cabin bulkhead, where the halyards were belayed on cleats on either side, and let them run.

From Project Gutenberg

These were controlled from above by rods and wheels led to the level of the bulkhead deck.

From Project Gutenberg

By connections at the engine room forward bulkhead steam could be taken from any boiler in the ship.

From Project Gutenberg

The water then flowed in from the top through the deck scuttle forward of the collision bulkhead.

From Project Gutenberg

There was another water-tight door at the after end of the water-tight passage through the bunker immediately aft of D bulkhead.

From Project Gutenberg