Phrase guide

off keel

prep_phrase · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

Out of balance, tilting to one side. (of a watercraft, etc.)

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • 1896, William Sharp, Boston: Lamson, Wolffe & Col, Chapter 4, p. 78, The tide was full and the dingey was off keel. The punt nosed the pebbly slope like a terrier, but her stern swung clear.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

prep_phrase

Meaning 2

Out of control, not proceeding or running smoothly.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From off + keel.