Definition

In a position or area that is situated beneath the main deck of a ship or boat.

Example

The crew worked belowdecks to prepare for the journey ahead.

Conversation

Have you ever been belowdecks on a ship?

No, I haven’t! What’s it like down there?

It's surprisingly spacious with all the crew quarters and storage.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to explore belowdecks someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Belowdecks → The word is formed from "below" (from Old English "belo", meaning beneath or lower) and "decks" (from Middle Dutch "dec", meaning a floor or platform). The term "belowdecks" refers to the area beneath the main deck of a ship.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'beneath' ('below') the 'floor' ('decks') of a ship — that's what belowdecks means.

Visually Confused Words