1. A strong beam or timber running across a ship's hull to support the deck.
Usage: nautical; also spelled 'carline'
2. A woman or girl, especially a young woman.
Usage: Scottish; informal; archaic

Examples

• The carling reinforced the deck structure of the wooden ship.
• The ship's carlings were inspected for rot and damage.
• In Scottish dialect, a bonnie carling might refer to a pretty young woman.
• The old carlings of the vessel had to be replaced during the restoration.
• The carpenter checked each carling to ensure the deck was properly supported.