Nautical Term: Mats
Definition of Mats
Mats, or slabs, are commonly constructed of timbers and placed on the deck of a vessel. Their primary function is to support and distribute the weight of heavy loads, preventing damage to the deck and the vessel as a whole.
For example, a cargo ship is transporting a large container of heavy machinery. To prevent the weight of the container from damaging the deck of the ship, the crew places mats made of timbers on the deck. The container is then placed on the mats, allowing the weight of the container to be distributed evenly across the mats and the deck beneath them.
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