Definition
A defect in sheet metal or a structural member in which the surface curves away from a straight line along its length, rather than lying flat or remaining true.
Plain English
A part that should be straight or flat has a gentle curve in it.
Context Anchor
Seen in seaplane descriptions, float inspections, and water-handling discussions.
Derivation
From Old English 'boga,' meaning something bent or curved. The word has long described any shape that bends along its length, like an archer's bow.
Why Pilots Care
A bowed structural member or skin panel can indicate damage, improper installation, or stress that may affect the part's strength and the aircraft's airworthiness.
Intuition Check
Do not read bow here as a ribbon or the act of bending forward. In this aviation use, bow means the front end of a seaplane float or hull, like the front of a boat.
Example Sentence 1
The technician rejected the panel because of a slight bow along its lower edge.
Example Sentence 2
Damage to the bow of the float required inspection before the next water landing.