1. waterproof canvas sheets used as coverings or tarpaulins
Usage: nautical; plural form

Examples

• The sailors secured the paulins over the cargo before the storm hit.
• We need to check that all the paulins are properly tied down.
• The deck crew spread paulins over the equipment to keep it dry.
• Old paulins were patched and reused whenever possible.
• The ship’s paulins provided essential protection from the elements.