Pronunciation: [kˈiːld] (IPA) 
The word "keeled" is spelled with two syllables, "keeld", and is pronounced as /kild/. The first syllable "keel" is pronounced as the word "kill" but with a shortened vowel sound. The second syllable "ed" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, as in "bed". The word can be used in a variety of contexts, such as the keeled shape of a boat's hull or the fact that an animal is keeled over, meaning it has fallen on its side.
The term "keeled" is an adjective that refers to an object or a living organism possessing a keel. The keel, in turn, is a structural feature found mainly in watercraft or certain animals.
In regards to watercraft, "keeled" relates to vessels that are equipped with a keel, which is the elongated, flat, or sometimes V-shaped bottom part of the ship's hull that extends from front to back. It plays a fundamental role in providing stability, preventing sideways motion, and counterbalancing the force of the wind on the vessel's sails. A keeled boat or ship tends to be less prone to capsizing or drifting off course, as the keel helps maintain proper navigation and control.
Similarly, when referring to animals and birds, "keeled" describes those possessing a prominent ridge or bone along their breastbone or sternum, projecting down like a keel. This characteristic is commonly found in species such as certain birds (e.g., birds of prey, gamebirds, etc.), reptiles (e.g., crocodiles), and marine mammals (e.g., whales, dolphins). The keel in these organisms supports powerful wing or flipper muscles, enabling enhanced maneuverability, efficient flight or swimming, and providing better control during locomotion.
Overall, "keeled" denotes an object or living creature that possesses the specific feature of a keel, bringing stability, balance, and adaptability to its function or locomotion.
Furnished with a keel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "keeled" has its origins in the Middle English term "kele", which referred to a ship's bottom or the rounded part of a boat that goes from the stem to the stern. This Middle English term was derived from the Old Norse word "kjölr" meaning "keel" or "ship's keel". It is ultimately related to the Proto-Germanic word "keluz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*gelh₁-", both of which also mean "keel". The term "keeled" specifically emerged in the early 19th century to describe an object or structure that has a keel-like shape or form.
