Nautical Term: Top-heavy
Definition of Top-heavy
A top-heavy vessel is one that carries an excessive amount of weight or mass above the waterline. This condition can adversely affect the stability and handling of the ship. For instance, in a narrative about a tall ship, the following paragraph might be used: ‘The tall ship, laden with precious cargo, looked majestic against the backdrop of the setting sun. However, the ship’s captain grew increasingly concerned as he observed the ship becoming more and more top-heavy with each passing wave.’
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