1. Determining Depth:
* This is the most common meaning. "Sounding" refers to the act of measuring the depth of water beneath a vessel. This is typically done using a lead line, a weighted rope with markings indicating depth.
* The sounding itself is the recorded depth obtained through this process.
2. Signaling:
* This meaning is less common but still relevant. "Sounding" can also refer to a signal made by a ship's whistle or fog horn.
* This type of sounding is used for communication, particularly in situations of low visibility.
Therefore, depending on the context, "sounding" can refer to:
* The act of measuring water depth.
* The recorded depth obtained through measurement.
* A signal made by a ship's whistle or fog horn.
Let me know if you'd like more details on any of these meanings!