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Oakum: meaning, definitions and examples

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oakum

 

[ ˈō-kəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

nautical material

Oakum is a traditional term used to describe a type of coarse, loose fiber made from old ropes and hemp. It is commonly used in shipbuilding and caulking to fill gaps or seams in wooden hulls and other structures. The fibers are typically saturated with tar or pitch to enhance water resistance. Oakum has been essential in maritime practices due to its durability and effectiveness in keeping water out of boats. Although modern materials have largely replaced oakum, it still holds historical significance in the shipbuilding industry.

Synonyms

caulking, fiber, packing

Examples of usage

  • The shipwright applied oakum to seal the seams.
  • We need more oakum for this repair job.
  • Traditionally, sailors would use oakum during maintenance.
  • The process of caulking with oakum is labor-intensive.

Translations

Translations of the word "oakum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fibra de cânhamo

🇮🇳 ऊकुम

🇩🇪 Hanfseil

🇮🇩 serat rami

🇺🇦 джут

🇵🇱 włókno konopne

🇯🇵 オークム

🇫🇷 chènevotte

🇪🇸 cáñamo

🇹🇷 kenevir ipliği

🇰🇷 오크움

🇸🇦 الكتان

🇨🇿 konopné vlákno

🇸🇰 konopné vlákno

🇨🇳 麻绳

🇸🇮 konopljina vlakna

🇮🇸 hampsnúr

🇰🇿 канап жіп

🇬🇪 კანაფის ძაფი

🇦🇿 kenevir ipi

🇲🇽 cáñamo

Etymology

The word 'oakum' originates from Middle English 'okum', which is believed to have derived from the Old Norse word 'okumi', meaning 'to unfasten' or 'to loosen'. This is linked to its use in the context of untwisting fibers from old ropes to create a useful material for maritime use. The technique has been employed since ancient times, especially in the Viking era when ships relied on skilled craftsmen to maintain their vessels. Historically, oakum was an essential component of shipbuilding, and its distinct brown color and fibrous nature made it ideal for caulking seams and ensuring boats remained watertight. As newer materials have emerged over time, oakum's use has declined, but it remains a part of maritime heritage.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,985 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.