AMIDSHIPS Meaning and
Definition
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Amidships is an adverb that refers to the middle or central part of a ship or boat, with reference to its longitudinal axis. It indicates a position that is equidistant from the bow (forward) and the stern (rear) of the vessel. When an object or person is amidships, it is situated in the middle section of the ship, neither too far forward nor too far aft.
The term amidships is primarily used in nautical contexts to describe the specific location within a ship. For example, sailors or navigators might ask someone to move amidships, meaning they want them to go towards the center of the ship. This position is often considered more stable and balanced, as it is closer to the center of gravity of the vessel. In terms of stability, being amidships helps to minimize pitch and roll caused by waves or wind.
Besides its nautical usage, the term amidships can also be utilized metaphorically to mean the middle or central point of something. It can describe the core or center of a process, an event, or even an argument. In this sense, the term is used to indicate a position that is equidistant from two opposing sides or viewpoints. When a person is described as being amidships in a metaphorical sense, it generally implies neutrality or impartiality.
Common Misspellings for AMIDSHIPS
Etymology of AMIDSHIPS
The word "amidships" is derived from two Middle English terms: "amidde" and "ship". "Amidde" means "in the middle" or "among", while "ship" refers to a vessel or a boat. By combining these two terms, "amidships" was formed to specifically describe the central part or middle section of a ship. It has been in use in maritime language since the 16th century and is still commonly used today.
Similar spelling words for AMIDSHIPS
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