Carina

Carina is one of the three constellations that use to form the huge constellation Argo Navis, the ship of the Argonauts. In 1752 Nicolas Louis de Lacaille divided the gigantic Argo Navis into four constellations: Carina (the Keel), Puppis (the Stern, or Poop deck), Pyxis (the Compass) and Vela (the Sail).

Ca*ri"na (?), n. [L., keel.]

1. Bot.

A keel

That part of a papilionaceous flower, consisting of two petals, commonly united, which incloses the organs of fructification

A longitudinal ridge or projection like the keel of a boat.

2. Zool.

The keel of the breastbone of birds.

© Webster 1913.