Definitions for "Plimsoll Line"
Naval The mark on the side of a merchant ship to denote the greatest depth to which the ship may be loaded, under various conditions, in accordance with the Ministry of Transport regulations. Samuel Plimsoll, M.P., introduced the regulations to Parliament; they were ratified under the Merchant Shipping Acts of 1876 and 1990.
Line or mark required to be placed on the side of all British merchant vessels, showing the depth to which they may be legally loaded. Named after Samuel Plimsoll, 1824-98, politician and social reformer.
waterlines to show the level the water should reach when the ship is properly loaded