What is referred to as the ceiling inside a ship?

The term "overhead" refers to the ceiling inside a ship. In naval terminology, the overhead is the surface that forms the upper limit of a compartment or space and is typically referred to as the ceiling in civilian architectural contexts. It serves several purposes, including structural support, insulation, and housing for systems such as lighting and electrical conduits.

Understanding the layout of a ship is crucial for operations and safety, as it helps crew members navigate through spaces and identify areas within the ship. The overhead can vary significantly in different sections of a ship, reflecting the functional requirements and design constraints of various compartments.

The other terms used in naval architecture relate to different structural components. While "deck" refers to the floors of the ship, "bulkhead" denotes vertical walls that divide different compartments, and "compartment" is a defined space within the ship that serves a specific function. None of these terms describe the ceiling specifically, which is why "overhead" is the appropriate choice.