(kēl) noun
1. Naut. The lowest lengthwise member of the framework of a vessel, serving to stiffen it and, when it projects below the planking or plating, as is usually the case, giving it stability.
2. Figuratively, a ship.
3. Aeron. a A vertical fin which extends longitudinally for a considerable length at the bottom of an airship. b The center bottom of an airplane fuselage.
4. Any keel–shaped part or object.
5. Ornithol. A median longitudinal ridge or process, as of the breast bone of a fowl.
—fin keel An extension of a yacht's keel downward, suggesting the back fin of a fish: commonly of metal, and serving to ballast and prevent lateral drifting.
—v.t. & v.i. To turn over with the keel uppermost; capsize.
—to keel over
1. To turn bottom up; capsize.
2. To fall over or be felled, as from an injury. [<ON kjölr keel]

(kēl) noun
1. A coal barge used on the Tyne in England.
2. The quantity of coal in a barge load.
3. A former British unit of weight for coal, equal to 21.54 metric tons. [<MDu. kiel ship]

(kēl) v.t. Obs.
To cool. [OE cēlan]

(kēl) noun Scot.
Red chalk or ocher; ruddle.