Jumping the slide

Another problem encountered by a rower when the seat becomes derailed from the track during the rowing cycle. 

Keel

Technically, the structural member running the length of the boat at the bottom of the hull. Today, some shells are built without this member so the term often refers to the center line of the shell. 

Layback

The amount of backward lean of the rower's body at the end of the finish. Should not be more than 10-15 degrees past vertical.

Loom

The part of the oar between the blade and the handle.

Missing water 

The rower starts the drive before the catch has been completed (or even started in some cases). This is also referred to as rowing into the catch. 

Oarlock (or rowlock) 

A U-shaped swivel which holds the oar in place. It's mounted at the end of the rigger and rotates around a metal pin. A gate closes across the top to keep the oar in. 

Outboard

The distance from the face of the collar to the tip of the blade.

Paddle

To row or scull at very light pressure.

Piece

A period of work performed in a shell.

Pin

The metal cylinder on which the oarlock swivels.

Pinch

Occurs when the oar is at too acute an angle to the boat at either the catch or finish.

Pitch 

The angle between the blade (on the drive when the blade is `squared') and a line perpendicular to the water's surface.