Word Study
clinker-built
CIDE DICTIONARY
clinker-built, a.
Having the side planks (af a boat) so arranged that the lower edge of each overlaps the upper edge of the plank next below it like clapboards on a house. See Lapstreak. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
clinker-built, adj. (also clincher-built) (of a boat) having external planks overlapping downwards and secured with clinched copper nails.
Etymology
clink N.Engl. var. of CLINCH + -ER(1)
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