calking
/ˈkɔːkɪŋ/
VERB
1. Making metal seams watertight by indentation
The process of indenting the edge of a metal plate along a seam to force it tightly against an adjoining plate and close the gap.
1.1. Sealing seams in metal plates
Pressing or indenting the edge of one metal plate against another to close a seam and prevent leakage, especially in boilers or iron ships.
Synonyms
- caulking
- sealing
Examples
- The metalworker spent the afternoon calking the seams of the boiler.
- Proper calking helps prevent leaks along the joints of an iron ship.
Related Words
- indenting
- joining
- crimping
- metalworking
- seam
VERB
2. Driving sealing material into ship seams
The process of forcing oakum or another sealing material into the seams of a wooden ship's deck or hull to make it watertight.
2.1. Waterproofing wooden ships
Packing oakum or similar material into gaps between wooden planks in a ship's deck or hull to prevent water from entering.
Synonyms
- caulking
- chinking
- sealing
Examples
- Calking the seams of the ship is crucial to prevent water from seeping into the hull.
Related Words
- oakum
- shipbuilding
- hull
- deck
- waterproofing
VERB
3. Applying sealing material to joints and cracks
The process of applying caulking material to joints, cracks, or gaps between different materials to prevent air or water from passing through.
3.1. Sealing gaps in buildings and fixtures
Filling cracks and joints around windows, doors, floors, foundations, bathtubs, or other building components with sealing material to prevent drafts and leaks.
Synonyms
- caulking
- sealing
- chinking
- filling
Examples
- The carpenter is busy calking the gaps in the wooden floorboards to keep drafts out.
- Before winter sets in, homeowners should consider calking around windows and doors to improve energy efficiency.
- The mason spent hours calking the cracks in the foundation to prevent water infiltration.
- Proper calking of the bathtub ensures that no leaks occur when it is filled with water.
Related Words
NOUN
4. Sealing material used in construction
A material used to fill and seal joints between different materials in construction and manufacturing.
4.1. Construction sealant
A sealing compound applied to gaps or joints between building materials to prevent water, air, or other substances from passing through.
Synonyms
- caulk
- sealant
Examples
- The contractor applied calking around the window frames to prevent water from entering.
- The calking used around the bathtub had deteriorated and needed replacement.