strongback

English

Etymology

strong +‎ back

Noun

strongback (plural strongbacks)

1. (nautical) The fore-and-aft spar extending from stem to stern on a lifeboat and serving as a raised spreader for a boat cover. (FM 55-501)
2. (nautical) A strong bar placed across a hatch opening to hold hatch boards or hatch covers. (FM 55-501)
3. (carpentry) A load-bearing post with a T-shaped cross-section, where the short T-tail prevents bowing of the long post.
4. (sculpture) A backing pole used to reinforce and stabilize vertically-oriented sculptures.
5. (space science) A vertical structure used to support and stabilize a rocket, often hosting fuel and power umbilical connections. Usually retracted immediately before launch.