The angular fore-part of the rudder, in juxtaposition with the stern-post. Also, the corresponding bevel of the stern-post. Also, the bevelling of any piece of timber or plank to any required angle: as the bearding of dead wood, clamps, &c.
·p.pr. & ·vb.n. of <<Beard>>. ...
Webster's Dictionary of the English Language
In ship-building, is a curved line made by bearding the dead-wood to the shape of the ship's body. ...
The Sailor's Word-Book