Planked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🪵
Add to dictionary

planked

[plæŋkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

construction term

Planked refers to the action of laying down or fastening planks, which are long, flat pieces of wood used in building or flooring. This process is common in constructing decks, floors, and walls. It can also imply a method of surfacing a structure with wooden boards. The term is often used in carpentry and woodworking, playing a crucial role in creating stable and durable surfaces.

Synonyms

boarded, decked, layered.

Examples of usage

  • The contractor planked the new deck last weekend.
  • They planked the walls with reclaimed wood for a rustic look.
  • The flooring was planked carefully to avoid gaps.
  • He is planking the ceiling as part of his renovation project.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fitness

  • Planking as an exercise is effective for core strengthening, engaging multiple muscle groups at once.
  • The exercise became popular in the early 2000s, with social media contributing to its spread through fitness challenges.
  • Different variations of planking exist, including side planks and elevated planks, targeting different muscles.

Cultural References

  • The 'planking' meme emerged around 2011, where people would take photos lying face down in unusual places.
  • This trend was sometimes seen as silly, but it also sparked discussions about safety and creativity in social media.

Physical Health

  • Regularly doing plank exercises improves posture, balance, and overall body strength.
  • Experts suggest planking for even just a minute a day can have significant fitness benefits.

Art and Design

  • Wood planking is frequently used in interior design for rustic aesthetics, enhancing the warmth of a space.
  • Techniques like shiplap, a type of wood paneling, are popular in modern architecture and decor.

Origin of 'planked'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'plank' comes from the Old English word 'planc', meaning 'a flat piece of wood'.
  • It originally described thin, flat pieces of timber used in ships and buildings.
  • Using 'planked' to mean the exercise stems from the visual of lying flat like a board.

The word 'plank' has its origins in Middle English 'planke', which came from the Old French 'planque', and ultimately from the Latin 'planca' meaning 'broad, flat piece of wood'. This evolution shows its relationship with the characteristics of a plank as a flat, elongated wooden board. The verb form 'planked' emerged as the action associated with this object, which is prevalent in construction and carpentry. Historically, planks have been fundamental in building and crafting since ancient civilizations, where they were used to construct everything from ships to homes. The significance of planking has remained through the ages, adapting to various needs in architecture and design.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,908 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.