1. Plural of centreboard; a retractable or pivoting fin or keel on a sailboat that reduces sideways drift and improves steering.
Usage: nautical; chiefly British English (American English: centerboards)

Examples

• The sailing instructor explained how centreboards help boats move forward more efficiently.
• Modern dinghies often have retractable centreboards to reduce drag in shallow water.
• The crew raised the centreboards before entering the narrow channel.
• Centreboards are essential for preventing a sailboat from slipping sideways in strong winds.
• The damaged centreboards had to be replaced before the race could begin.