Support for the frame of a ship (4)

I believe the answer is:

keel

(Other definitions for keel that I've seen before include "Longitudinal structure supporting the frame of a vessel" , "Strut along base of ship" , "Flat-bottomed, coal carrying vessel" , "Structure along base of ship" , "Fore-and-aft base to a ship's hull" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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