From Old English 'hulu' (husk/covering)—a ship's hull is its outer 'shell,' just like a seed hull.
The main body of a ship, including the bottom, sides, and deck, excluding the masts, sails, and rigging.
From Middle English 'hul,' possibly from Old English 'hulu' (husk, pod, covering) or related to 'helan' (to conceal, to cover). A ship's hull is its outer 'husk'—the shell that keeps the sea out, just as a seed hull protects the kernel. Key roots: helan (Old English: "to conceal, to hide