What is another word for strakes?
Pronunciation: [stɹˈe͡ɪks] (IPA) 
Strakes are long, narrow planks or metal sheets that are fixed to the lateral surface of a ship's hull. They are also sometimes called garboards, wales, or hull planking. Similarly, the terms keel, chine, and stem are also related to strakes since they all refer to various parts of a ship's hull. The word garboard specifically refers to the strake nearest to the keel. Strakes are essential in creating the smooth surface of the hull to minimize turbulence and increase speed. Different strakes can have different shapes and positions depending on the type of ship and its intended purpose. Regardless of what they are called, strakes are crucial to shipbuilding and maintenance.
