ITTC Symbols and Terminology List Alphabetic

ITTC Symbols
Version 2021
ITTC Symbols and Terminology List
Alphabetic
Version 2021
June 2021
Supersedes all previous versions
Updated by the 29th ITTC Quality Systems Group

ITTC Symbols
Version 2021
NOTE: bold letters are used to denote vectors

Red colour identifies the additions/modifications of this version of the List
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
ITTC Computer Definition or SI-
Name
Symbol Symbol Explanation Unit
(fundamental, statistical,
A MS stochastic) Average, sample
mean
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur-
A AP b cM m2
faces) Projected area
A, AR, (ships, basic quantities)
A m2
AREA Area in general
(ships, hydrostatics, stabil-
ity, seakeeping, large ampli-
tude motions capsizing) As-
A 1
sumed centre of gravity
above keel used for cross
curves of stability
(ships, propulsor perfor-
AO AO mance, propulsor geometry) π D2 / 4 m2
Propeller disc area
(ships, propulsor geometry,
An, A6 water jets) Nozzle discharge m2
area
Distance of centre of buoy-
AB XAB tude motions capsizing) m
ancy from aft perpendicular
Longitudinal centre of buoy-
ancy from aft perpendicular
The area of the ram projected
(ships, hull geometry) Area
on the middle line plane for-
ABL ABL of bulbous bow in longitudi- m2
ward of the fore perpendicu-
nal plane
lar
The cross sectional area at
the fore perpendicular.
Where the water lines are
rounded so as to terminate on
of transverse cross-section
ABT ABT the forward perpendicular m2
of a bulbous bow (full area
ABT is measured by continu-
port and star-board)
ing the area curve forward to
the perpendicular, ignoring
the final rounding;
(ships, appendage geome-
AC AC m2
try) Area under cut-up
Projected area of ACV or
(ACV and SES) Cushion
AC CUA SES cushion on water sur- m2
area
face
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
Name
(seakeeping, large ampli-

tude motions capsizing)
AC m²
Area of deck available to
crew
D eveloped blade area of a
(ships, propulsor geometry)
AD AD screw propeller outside the m2
Developed blade area
boss or hub
ADEN ADEN m2
Duct entry area
ADEX ADEX m2
Duct exit area
Expanded blade area of a
AE AE screw propeller outside the m2
Expanded blade area
boss or hub
AF XAF tude motions capsizing) Dis- m
tance of the centre of flota-
tion from aft perpendicular
(hydrofoil boats) Foil area
AF AFO Foil area in horizontal plane m2
(general)
(ships, appendage geometry,
AFB AFB, AFB0 ships, manoeuvrability) Pro- m2
jected area of bow fins
(hydrofoil boats) Emerged
AFE AFE m2
area of foil
(hydrofoil boats) Sub-
AFF ASFF m2
merged area of front foil
(ships, appendage geome- Projected frontal area of an
AFR AFR m2
try) Frontal area appendage
AFS AFS, AFST seakeeping) Projected area m2
of stern fins
AFS AFS m2
merged foil area
AFST0 AFSTO merged foil plan area at m2
take-off speed
(hydrofoil boats) Total foil
AFT AFT m2
plan area
tude motions capsizing) Distance of centre of gravity
AG L XAG m
Longitudinal centre of grav- from aft perpendicular
ity from aft perpendicular
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
Name

AG T YAG Transverse distance from as- m
sumed centre of gravity A,
to actual centre of gravity G
AG V ZAG Vertical distance from as- m
to actual centre of gravity G
The area of the profile of the
underwater hull of a ship
(ships, manoeuvrability)
AHL AHLT when projected normally m2
Lateral area of the hull
upon the longitudinal centre
plane
(multi-hull vessels) Strut-
AI AIA m2
hull intersection area
(solid body mechanics, in-
ertial and hydro properties)
Aij AM(I,J) 1
Added mass coefficient in
ith mode due to jth motion
(sailing vessels) Area of jib
AJ ASJ m2
or genoa
(sailing vessels) Lateral area
ALK ALK m2
of keel
(sailing vessels) Total lateral
ALT ALT m2
area of yacht
(ships, manoeuvrability,
seakeeping, large amplitude
ALV AHLV m2
motions capsizing)) Lateral
area of hull above water
(ships, hull geometry) Area Midway between fore and aft
AM AM m2
of midship section perpendiculars
(sailing vessels) Area of
Am ASM m2
mainsail
(sailing vessels) Normalized
AN ASN m2
sail area
An water jets)Nozzle discharge m2
area
Projected blade area of a
AP AP screw propeller outside the m2
Projected blade area
boss or hub
Wetted Surface Area of Pod
APB APB m2
Main Body
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
Name
Wetted Surface Area of Bot-

APBF APBF m2
tom Fin
Wetted Surface Area of
APS APS m2
Strut
(ships, manoeuvrability) To-
AR ARU m2
tal lateral area of rudder
ARF AF try) Lateral area of rudder m2
flap
tude motions capsizing) Pos-
ARL m²
itive area under righting
lever curve
ARmov ARMV Lateral area of the movable m2
part of rudder
ARN ARNO Nominal lateral area of rud- (AR + ARmov) / 2 m2
der
ARP ARP try)Lateral area of rudder in m2
the propeller race
ART ART try) Total lateral area of rud- ARX + ARmov m2
der
ARX ARX try) Lateral area of the fixed m2
part of rudder
tude motions capsizing, sail-
AS AS ing vessels) Sail area in gen- (P E + I J) / 2 m2
eral, Area of sails in profile
according to ISO 8666
As water jets) Cross sectional m2
area at station s
ASFR ASFR m2
merged area of rear foil
ASI ASI 1
tude motions capsizing) At-
tained subdivision index
ASK ASK m2
try) Projected skeg area
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
Name
(sailing vessels) Area of

ASP ASSP m2
spinnaker
ASS ASS m2
merged strut area
(ships, hull geometry) Area Cross-sectional area of tran-
AT ATR of transom (full area port som stern below the load wa- m2
and starboard) terline
(ships, hull geometry, sea-
keeping, large amplitude
motions capsizing) Pro- Area of portion of ship above
jected lateral area of the por- waterline projected normally 2
AV AV m
tion of the ship and deck to the direction of relative
cargo above the waterline – wind
(IMO/IS, IMO/HSC'2000)
Area exposed to wind
AW AW m2
of water-plane
AWA AWA of water-plane aft of mid- m2
ship
AWF AWF of water-plane forward of m2
midship
AX AX of maximum transverse sec- m2
tion
(ships,hull geometry, ship
performance) Transverse Projected area of the ship
𝐴𝐴XV AXV projected area above the wa- above the waterline projected m2
terline including superstruc- on a transversal plane
tures
tude motions, capsizing
ships, hydrostatics, stability)
Generally tabulated in cross
AZ YAZ Righting arm based on hori- m
curves of stability
zontal distance from as-
to Z
(ships, seakeeping) Ampli-
tude of frequency response za(ω) / ζa(ω) or
Azζ(ω) 1
function for translatory mo- za(ω) / ηa(ω)
tions
Θa(ω) / ζa(ω) or
Aθζ(ω) tude of frequency response 1
Θa(ω) / (ω2/ (gζa(ω)))
function for rotary motions
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 A, a
Name
(ships, basic quantities) Lin-

a, a1 AC, A1 ear or translatory accelera- dv / dt m/s2
tion
(fundamental, time and fre-
a ADMP quency domain quantity) sr, in Laplace variable 1/s
Damping
(ships, performance) Re-
a RAUG (T - RT) / RT 1
sistance augment fraction
Cylindrical system with
origin O and longitudinal x-
axis as defined before; angu-
(ships, unsteady propeller
lar a-(attitude)-coordinate ,
a ATT forces) Cylindrical coordi-
zero at 12 o'clock position,
nates
positive clockwise looking
forward, r distance measured
from the x-axis
Half-width of a rectangular
Half-width of a rectangular distribution of possible val-
a
distribution ues of input quantity Xi:
a = (a+– a_) / 2
aD ADR AD / A0 1
Developed blade area ratio
aE ADE AE / A0 1
Expanded blade area ratio
i = 1, 2, 3, e.g. Euler angles
(ships, seakeeping) Atti-
ai AT(I) of roll, pitch, and yaw, re- rad
tudes of the floating system
spectively
aP ADP AP / A0 1
Projected blade area ratio
Upper bound, or upper limit,
a+ Upper bound
of input quantity Xi:
Lower bound, or lower limit,
a- Lower bound
of input quantity Xi:
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 B, b
Symbol Name
Symbol Explanation Unit
(ships, basic quantities, hull

B B, BR geometry) Breadth, m
moulded, of ships hull
ity, seakeeping, large ampli- Centroid of the underwater
B
tude motions capsizing) Cen- volume
tre of buoyancy
(multi-hull vessels) Box
BB BB Breadth of main deck m
breadth
(ACV and SES) Cushion SES cushion breadth meas-
BC BCU m
breadth ured between the side walls
(ships, hull geometry) R.E.
BC CIRCB B / ∇1/3 1
Froude's breadth coefficient
(seakeeping, large amplitude
motions capsizing) Breadth
BCB m
between centres of buoyancy
of side hulls
(ships, ship performance)
𝐵𝐵f BF See 7.5-04-01-01.1 1
Bluntness coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Maximum
BFOA BFOA vessel breadth including m
foils
(solid body mechanics, iner-
tial and hydro properties)
Bij DA(I,J)
Damping coefficient in ith
mode due to jth motion
(planing, semi-displacement Breadth over spray strips
vessels) Breadth at longitudi- measured at transverse sec-
BLCG BLCG m
nal position of the centre of tion containing centre of
gravity gravity
(ships, hull geometry)
Breadth, moulded of mid-
BM BM m
ship section at design water
line
Distance from the centre of
(seakeeping, large amplitude buoyancy B to transverse
motions capsizing) Trans- metacentre M
BM ZBM m
verse metacentre above cen-
I
tre of buoyancy BM = T = KM − KB
∇
motions capsizing) Longitu-
dinal metacentre above cen- BM L = KM L − KB
BM L ZBML m
tre of buoyancy
(fluid mechanics, flow pa-
Bo BN V / (g RH)1/2 1
rameter) Boussinesq number
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 B, b
Symbol Name
(sailing vessels) Breadth,

BOA BOA m
overall
(ships, propulsor perfor- n PD½ / VA2.5
mance) Taylor's propeller with n in revs/min,
BP BP 1
coefficient based on deliv- PD in horsepower, and
ered horsepower (obsolete) VA in kn
(planing, semi-displacement
BPA BPA vessels) Mean breadth over AP / LP m
chines
(planing, semi-displacement Breadth over chines, exclud-
BPC BPC m
vessels) Breadth over chines ing external spray strips
Breadth over chines at tran-
BPT BPT som, excluding external m
vessels) Transom breadth
spray strips
(planing, semi-displacement Maximum breadth over
BPX BPX vessels) Maximum breadth chines, excluding external m
over chines spray strips
(multi-hull vessels) Hull Distance between hull centre
BS BS m
spacing lines
BT BTR Breadth, moulded of tran- m
som at design water line
(multi-hull vessels) Tunnel Minimal distance of the
BTV BTUN m
width demihulls at the waterline
(ships, propulsor perfor- n PT½ / VA2.5
mance) Taylor's propeller with n in revs/min,
BU BU 1
coefficient based on thrust PT in horsepower, and
horsepower (obsolete) VA in kn
(ships, hull geometry) Maxi-
BWL BWL mum moulded breadth at de- m
sign water line
(ACV and SES) Total water-
BWLT BWLT At the water line m
line breadth of SES
Breadth, moulded of maxi-
BX BX m
mum section area at design
water line
Distance from the centre of
(ships, hydrostatics, stabil- buoyancy B to the transverse
BM ZBM ity) Transverse metacentre metacentre M. m
above centre of buoyancy
BM = I T / ∇= KM - KB
BM L ZBML ity) Longitudinal metacentre KM L - KB
above centre of buoyancy
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 B, b
Symbol Name

tude motions capsizing) Cen-
b tre of flotation of added
buoyancy layer or centre of
lost buoyancy of the flooded
volume
b motions capsizing) Maxi- m
mum tank breadth
(environmental mechanics, Sampling frequency divided
b B waves) Bandwidth of spec- by the number of transform Hz
tral resolution points
b SP m
faces) Wing or foil span
bF BSPF m
faces) Flap span
(ships, manoeuvrability) Maximum distance from
bR SPRU m
Rudder span root to tip
bRM SPRUME m
Mean span of rudder
(hydrofoil boats) Span of
bS BST m
struts
(hydrofoil boats) Transverse
bST BSTT m
horizontal distance of struts
(hydrofoil boats) Foil span
bw BSPW m
wetted
Upper bound, or upper limit,
of the deviation of input
b+ Upper bound of the deviation
quantity Xi from its estimate
xi: b+ = a+ - xi
Lower bound, or lower limit,
of the deviation of input
b- Lower bound of the deviation
quantity Xi from its estimate
xi: b_ = xi – a_
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
(fundamental, statistical, sto-

C CR chastic) Population covari-
ance
(ships, basic quantities) Force normal to lift and
C FF(2) N
Cross force drag (forces)
(environmental mechanics,
C10 C10M wind) Surface drag coeffi- (0.08 + 0.065U10)10-3
cient
(ships, hull resistance) In-
cremental resistance coeffi-
CA CA RA / (S q) 1
cient for model ship corre-
lation
(ships, hull resistance) Air RAA / (S q)
CAA CAA or wind resistance coeffi- ρ A ρ A 1
= CDA A V = −CX A V
cient ρS SS ρS SS
(ships, performance) Admi-
CADM CADM Δ2/3 V3 / PS 1
ralty coefficient
CAL CAHL Coefficient of lateral area AHL / (L T) 1
of ship
(ships, hull resistance) Ap-
CAPP CAPP pendage resistance coeffi- RAPP / (S q) 1
cient
CB CB ∇ / (L B T) 1
Block coefficient
Thickness Cord Ratio of
CBFTC CBFTC 1
Bottom Fin
(ships, basic quantities) C
Cc CC CC = 1
Cross force coefficient qA
(ships, hull resistance) R.E.
CC CIRCC Froude's resistance coeffi- 1000 RT / (Δ(KC)2) 1
cient
(fluid mechanics, lifting
CD CDSE surfaces) Section drag co- 1
efficient
(ships, hull resistance)
CD CD D / (S q) 1
Drag coefficient
Proportion of boat plan
CD tude motions capsizing)
needed for crew
Crew density
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
(ships, Resistance and Pro-

pulsion, Hull resistance) 𝑅𝑅AA
CDA CDA Air or wind resistance coef- = 1
𝐴𝐴V 12𝜌𝜌A𝑉𝑉 2
ficient, from wind tunnel
tests
(hydrofoil boats) Drag co-
CDF CDF DF / (AFS q) 1
efficient of foil
CDI CDSI surfaces) Section induced 1
drag coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Induced
CDI CDI DI / (AFS q) 1
drag coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Interfer-
CDINT CDINT DINT / (AFS q) 1
ence drag coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Section
CD0 CD0 drag coefficient for angle of DP / (AFS q) 1
attack equal to zero
(hydrofoil boats) Spray
CDS CDSP DS / (AFS q) 1
drag coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Ventila-
CDVENT CDVENT DV / (AFS q) 1
tion drag coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Wave
CDW CDW DW / (AFS q) 1
drag coefficient
(ships, performance)
CD∇ CDVOL Power-displacement coeffi- PD / (ρ V3 ∇2/3 / 2) 1
cient
CF CF Frictional resistance coeffi- RF / (S q) 1
cient of a body
(fluid mechanics, boundary
Cf CFL layers) Skin friction coeffi- τ / (ρ Ue2 / 2) 1
cient
Frictional resistance coeffi-
CF0 CF0 RF0 / (S q) 1
cient of a corresponding
plate
(sailing vessels) Frictional
CFU CFU resistance coefficient (up- RFU / (S q) 1
right)
(ships, Geometry and Hy-
drostatics, Hull Geometry)
CGM CGM GM /∇1/3 1
Dimensionless GM coeffi-
cient
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name

drostatics, Hull Geome-
CGZ CGZ GZ /∇1/3 1
try)Dimensionless GZ co-
efficient
drostatics, Hull Geome-
CKG CKG KG /T 1
try)Dimensionless KG co-
efficient
Height coefficient, depend-
CH 1
ing on the height above sea
level of the structural mem-
ber exposed to the wind
(sailing vessels) Induced
CI 1
resistance coefficient
(ice going vessels) Coeffi-
CI CI RI / (ρI g h2 B) 1
cient of net ice resistance
(solid body mechanics, in-
ertial and hydro properties)
Cij RF(I,J)
Restoring force coefficient
in ith mode due to jth motion
(ships, hull geometry) Co-
CIL CWIL efficient of inertia of water 12 IL / ( B L3) 1
plane, longitudinal
(ships, hull geometry) Co-
CIT CWIT efficient of inertia of water 12 IT / (B3 L) 1
plane, transverse
CIW CIW cient of water resistance in RIW / (S qIW) 1
the presence of ice
Maximum number of per-
CL motions capsizing) Crew
sons on board
limit
CL CLSE surfaces) Section lift coef- 1
ficient
(hydrofoil boats) Foil lift
CLF CLF LF / (AFS q) 1
coefficient
(hydrofoil boats) Profile lift
CL0 CL0 coefficient for angle of at- L0 / (AFS q) 1
tack equal to zero
(planing, semi-displace-
CL0 CL0D ment vessels) Lift coeffi- Δ / (BCG2 q) 1
cient for zero deadrise
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
(hydrofoil boats) Lift coef-

CLTO CLTO LTO / (AFS q) 1
ficient at take-off condition
(hydrofoil boats) Slope of
CLX CLA dCL / dα 1
lift curve
(planing, semi-displace-
CLβ CLBET ment vessels) Lift coeffi- Δ / (BCG2 q) 1
cient for dead rise surface
CM CMSE surfaces) Section moment 1
coefficient
(ships, hull geometry) Mid-
ship section coefficient (mid-
CM CMS AM / (B T) 1
way between forward and aft
perpendiculars)
(hydrofoil boats) Pitching
CM CM M / ((AFF + AFR) (lF - lR) q) 1
moment coefficient
Trimming moment divided
Longitudinal trimming coef- by change in trim which ap-
CMTL CMTL proximately equals 1
ficient
BM L / L
(ships, performance) Trial
correction for propeller rate
CN CN nT / nS 1
of revolution at speed iden-
tity
correction for propeller rate
CNP CNP PDT / PDS 1
of revolution at power iden-
tity
(ships, hull geometry) Longi-
CP CPL ∇ / (AX L) or ∇ / (AM L) 1
tudinal prismatic coefficient
CP CDP correction for delivered 1
power
CP CPD mance) Power loading coeffi- PD / (AP qA VA) 1
cient
(ships, hull resistance, water
Cp CP jets) Local pressure coeffi- (p-p0)/(ρ V²/2) 1
cient
(ships, hull geometry) Pris- ∇A / (AX L / 2) or
CPA CPA 1
matic coefficient, after body ∇A / (AM L / 2)
(ships, hull geometry) Pris- ∇E / (AX LE) or
CPE CPE 1
matic coefficient, entrance ∇E / (AM LE)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
(ships, hull geometry) Pris- ∇F / (AX L / 2) or

CPF CPF 1
matic coefficient fore body ∇F / (AM L / 2)
(sailing vessels) Center of
Cpi CPI 1
pressure for Ai
(ships, hull resistance) Pres-
CPR CPR sure resistance coefficient, RP / (S q) 1
including wave effect
(ships, hull geometry) Pris- ∇R / (AX LR) or
CPR CPR 1
matic coefficient, run ∇R / (AM LR)
(ACV and SES) Aerodynamic
CPR CPR R0 / (ρA VR2 AC / 2) 1
profile drag coefficient
(ships, hull resistance) Vis-
CPV CPV cous pressure resistance coef- RPV / (S q) 1
ficient
CQ* CQS Q / (AP qS D) 1
mance) Torque index
CR CR chastic) Population covari-
ance
(ships, hull resistance) Re-
CR CR RR / (S q) 1
siduary resistance coefficient
Cr CRA waves) Average reflection 1
coefficient
(ships, manoeuvrability, sea-
Cr CRDS keeping) Directional stability Yv (Nr - muxG) - Nv (Yr - mu) N2s2
criterion
Cr(f) CRF waves) Reflection coefficient 1
amplitude function
(sailing vessels) Residuary
CRU CRU resistance coefficient (up- RRU / (S q) 1
right)
CS CS
chastic) Sample covariance
(ships, hull resistance) Spray
CS CSR RS / (S q) 1
(ships, hull geometry) Wetted
CS CS S / (∇ L)1/2 1
surface coefficient
motions capsizing) Shape co-
Cs efficient, depending on the 1
shape of the structural mem-
ber exposed to the wind
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
Thickness Cord Ratio of

CSTC CSTC 1
Strut
(ships, hull resistance) Total
CT CT RT / (S q) 1
CT* CTHS T / (AP qS) 1
mance) Thrust index
mance) Thrust loading coef-
CTh CTH T / (AP qA) = (TP / AP) / qA 1
ficient, energy loading coef-
ficient
(ships, hull resistance) Tel-
CTL CTLT g R L / (ΔV2) 1
fer's resistance coefficient
(ships, hull resistance, water Tnet
CTn jets) Thrust loading coeffi- 1
1
ρU 02 An
cient: 2
(ships, hull resistance) Quali-

CTQ CTQ CT∇ / (ηH ηR) 1
fied resistance coefficient
(sailing vessels) Total re-
CTU CTU RTU / (S q) 1
sistance coefficient (upright)
CT∇ CTVOL RT / (∇2/3 q) 1
sistance displacement
CTφ CTPHI sistance coefficient with heel RTφ / (S q) 1
and leeway
Cuv SI(U,V)
forces) Generalized stiffness
CV CV RV / (S q) 1
viscous resistance coefficient
CV CSP vessels) Froude number V / (BCG g)1/2 1
based on breadth
(ships, hull geometry) Pris-
CVP CVP ∇ / (AW T) 1
matic coefficient vertical
(ships, hull resistance) Wave
CW CW RW / (S q) 1
making resistance coefficient
(ships, hull geometry) Water
CWA CWA AWA / (B L / 2) 1
plane area coefficient, aft
CWC CWC 1
wave making coefficient
CWF CWF plane area coefficient, for- AWF /(B L / 2) 1
ward
CWP CW AWP /(L B) 1
plane area coefficient
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name

CWP CWP pattern resistance coefficient, 1
by wave analysis
(sailing vessels) Wave re-
CWU CWU 1
sistance coefficient (upright)
(ships, hull geometry) Maxi- AX / (B T),where B and T
CX CX mum transverse section coef- are measured at the position 1
ficient of maximum area
(ships, hull resistance) Air or
wind resistance coefficient,
CX CXA -RAA / (AV qR) 1
usually from wind tunnel
tests
(sailing vessels) Force coeffi-
Cx 1
cients
Cxx XXCR chastic) Auto-covariance of a (x(t) - xE)(x(t + τ) - xE)E
stationary stochastic process
chastic) Cross-covariance of
Cxy XYCR (x(t) - xE)(y(t + τ) - yE)E
two stationary stochastic pro-
cesses
Cy 1
cients
Cz 1
cients
(ships, hull geometry) Volu-
C∇ CVOL ∇ / L3 1
metric coefficient
CΔ CDL Δ / (BCG3 ρ g ) 1
vessels) Load coefficient
CΔ CLOAD Δ / (g ρA AC3/2) 1
loading coefficient
c CS (E / ρ)1/2 m/s
rameter) Velocity of sound
c0.7 C07 appendage geometry)Chord Chord length at r/R=0.7 m
length
appendage geometry) Chord
c CH, LCH m
length, chord length of a foil
section
(hydrofoil boats) Chord
cC CHC m
length at centre plane
cF CFL m
length of flap
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name

ces jets) Energy velocity coeffi- 1
cient at station s
cFT CHTI m
length at foil tips
(environmental mechanics, The average :rate of ad-
cG VG waves) Wave group velocity vance of the energy in a fi- m/s
or celerity nite train of gravity waves
(uncertainty) Sensitivity co-
ci ci = ∂f/∂xi . 1
efficient
The part of the Chord de-
limited by the Leading Edge
(ships, geometry and hydro-
and the intersection between
cLE CHLE statics, propulsor geometry) m
the Generator Line and the
Chord, leading part
pitch helix at the considered
radius
The expanded or developed
propulsor geometry, fluid
area of a propeller blade di-
cM CHM, CHME mechanics, lifting surfaces m
vided by the span from the
hydrofoil boats)
hub to the tip, ART / S
Mean chord length
cms jets) Momentum velocity co- 1
efficient at station s
(hydrofoil boats) Distance of
cPF CPFL centre of pressure on a foil or m
flap from leading edge
faces, ships, appendage ge-
cR CHRT m
ometry) Chord length at the
root
The displacement between
middle of chord and the
(ships, propulsor geometry) blade reference line. Posi-
cS CS m
Skew displacement tive when middle chord is at
the trailing side regarding
the blade reference line
cS CSTR m
length of a strut
cSF CHSF length of strut at intersection m
with foil
(ships, appendage geometry)
cT CHTP m
Chord length at the tip
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 C, c
Symbol Name
The part of the Chord de-

limited by the Trailing Edge
and the intersection between
cTE CHTE Chord, trailing part m
the Generator Line and the
pitch helix at the considered
radius
(environmental mechanics, LW TW = gLW / 2π
cW VP waves) Wave phase velocity in deep m/s
or celerity water
const = cW
waves) Wave phase velocity
cWi VP(I) for periodic waves in deep m/s
of harmonic components of a
water
periodic wave
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 D, d
Symbol Name
D DR stochastic) Population devi-
ation
D DEP Depth, moulded, of a ship m
hull
(ships, basic quantities)
D D, DI m
Diameter
D DP propulsor performance) m
Propeller diameter
Force opposing translatory
D FF(1) velocity, generally for a N
Drag (force)
completely immersed body
D water jets) Impeller diame- m
ter (maximum)
turning circles) Inherent
D0 DC0 m
steady turning diameter
δR = δ0
turning circles) Non-dimen-
D0′ DC0N D0 / LPP 1
sional inherent steady turn-
ing diameter
DC DC turning circles) Steady turn- m
ing diameter
turning circles) Non-dimen-
DC′ DCNO DC / LPP 1
sional steady turning diame-
ter
(fluid mechanics, cavitation)
DC DC N
Cavity drag
Force in the direction of
DF DRF faces, hydrofoil boats) Foil N
motion of an immersed foil
drag
(hydrofoil boats) Drag force
DFF DFF CDF AFF q N
on front foil
(hydrofoil boats) Drag force
DFR DFA CDF AFR q N
on rear foil
(multi-hull vessels) Hull di- Diameter of axis symmetric
DH DHUL m
ameter submerged hulls
(ships, basic quantities),
Dhuv DH(U,V) Generalized hydrodynamic ∂Fhu / ∂Vv
damping
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 D, d
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- For finite span foil, the com-
DI DRIND faces, hydrofoil boats) In- ponent of lift in the direc- N
duced drag tion of motion
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- Due to mutual interaction of
DINT DRINT faces, hydrofoil boats) Inter- the boundary layers of inter- N
ference drag secting foil
Dn water jets) Nozzle discharge m
diameter
DP DRSE faces) Section or profile Streamline drag N
drag at zero lift
Pressure differential of flow
Dp Pa
rate transducer
(hydrofoil boats) Profile
DP0 DRF0 drag for angle of attack Streamline drag N
equal to zero lift
Maximum Diameter of Pod
DPB DPB m
Body
DR DR stochastic) Population devi-
ation
DS DS stochastic) Sample devia-
tion
DSP DRSP (hydrofoil boats) Spray drag Due to spray generation N
DST DRST (hydrofoil boats) Strut drag N
Duv DA(U,V) forces) Generalized damp-
ing
(hydrofoil boats) Ventilation Due to reduced pressure at
DV DRVNT N
drag the rear side of the strut base
Due to propagation of sur-
DW DRWA (hydrofoil boats) Wave drag N
face waves
(multi-hull vessels) Hull di-
DX DX ameter at the longitudinal m
position "X"
DX(f,θ), (environmental mechanics, S(f,θ)=S(f)DX(f,θ) where
2π
DX(ω,μ),
∫ D ( f ,θ )dθ
DIRSF waves) Directional spread- =1 rad
X
ing function 0

d D, DI m
Diameter
(underwater noise)
d DIDR Distance hydrophone to m
acoustic centre
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 D, d
Symbol Name
(ships, hull geometry sea-

d T motions capsizing)) m
Draught, moulded, of ship
hull
d 1
Density coefficient for sub-
merged test weights
dA TA, TAP m
Draught at aft perpendicular
(ships, propulsor geometry) Clearance between propeller
dD CLEARD m
Propeller tip clearance tip and inner surface of duct
dF TF, TFP Draught at forward perpen- m
dicular
dh DH 2 rh m
Boss or hub diameter
Aft diameter of the hub, not
dha DHA Hub diameter, aft m
considering any shoulder
Fore diameter of the hub,
dhf DHF Hub diameter, fore not considering any shoul- m
der
(ships, hull geometry) De-
dKL KDROP TAD - TFD alias “keel drag” m
sign drop of the keel line
(ships, hull geometry) (TA + TF) / 2 for rigid bodies
dM TM, TMS m
Draught at midship with straight keel
(planing, semi-displacement Vertical depth of trailing
dTR DTRA vessels) Immersion of tran- edge of boat at keel below m
som, underway water surface level
dtψ YART dψ / dt rad/s
Rate of change of course
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 E, e
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, flow

E EL parameter) Modulus of Pa
elasticity
E EM Mainsail base m
E MR stochastic) Expectation,
population mean
E E, EN J
Energy
(sailing vessels) Mainsail
E EM m
base
EI MEI ice) Modulus of elasticity of Pa
ice
1 p 
∫∫ ρ 
jets) Total energy flux at u2 + − g j x j ui ni dA W
Es
station s (kinetic + potential As
2
ρ 
+ pressure)
jets) Total axial (in ξ 1 p 
Esξ
direction) energy flux at ∫∫ ρ 
As
2 uξ2 +
ρ
− g j x j ui ni dA W

station s
(fluid mechanics, flow fields)
e ED ρ V2 / 2 + p + ρ g h Pa
Density of total flow energy
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between NA and
eA ENAPP vessels) Lever of appendage centre of gravity (measured m
lift force NA normally to NA)
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between NB and
eB ENBOT vessels) Lever of bottom centre of gravity (measured m
normal force NB normally to NB)
Distance between propeller
centreline and centre of
ePN ENPN vessels) Lever of propeller m
gravity (measured along
normal force NPN
shaft line)
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between NPP and
ePP ENPP vessels) Lever of resultant of centre of gravity (measured m
propeller pressure forces NPP normally to NPP)
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between NPS and
ePS ENPS vessels) Lever of resultant centre of gravity (measured m
propeller suction forces NPS normal to NPS)
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between NRP and
eRP ENRP vessels) Lever of resultant of centre of gravity (measured m
rudder pressure forces NRP normal to NRP)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name

F CQF 1 / (Ue dQ / dx) 1
layers) Entrainment factor
F FB (hull geometry) Fore body
(environmental mechanics, Distance over water the
F FETCH m
wind) Fetch length wind blows
F F, F0 N
Force
F tude motions capsizing)
Centre of flotation of the
water plane
F tude motions capsizing)
Wind force - IMO/IS
F0 F, F0 N
Force
FX, (solid body mechanics,
0
F 1 F0(1), F(1) loads) Force in direction of N
body axis x
(solid body mechanics,
FY,
F02 loads) Force in direction of N
F0(2), F(2)
body axis y
FZ,
F0(3), F(3)
body axis z
FX,
F0(1), F(1)
body axis x
(ships, basic quantities) Mo- First order moment of a
F1 F1 Nm
ment of forces force distribution
F11 F1(1), F(4) loads) Moment around body Nm
axis x
axis y
axis z
FY,
F2 loads) Force in direction of Nm
F0(2), F(2)
body axis y
FZ,
F3 loads) Force in direction of Nm
F0(3), F(3)
body axis z
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name

axis x
axis y
axis z
tude motions capsizing) Distance of centre of buoy-
FB XFB Longitudinal centre of buoyancy from forward perpen- m
ancy, LCB, from forward per- dicular
pendicular
FC CIRCF Froude's frictional resistance 1000 RF / (Δ(KC)2) 1
coefficient
Friction deduction force in
Towing force applied to a
self-propulsion test. Skin
model to correct the model
friction correction in a self-
FD SFC resistance for different Re N
propulsion test carried out at
between model and full
the ship self-propulsion
scale.
point
Distance of centre of flota-
FF XFF tion from forward perpen- m
Longitudinal centre of float-
dicular
ation, LCF, from forward per-
pendicular
Force opposing translatory
F (ships, basic quantities) Re-
F 1 FF(1) velocity, generally for a N
sistance, Drag (force)
completely immersed body
(ships, basic quantities) Force normal to lift and drag
FF2 FF(2) N
Cross force (forces)
(ships, basic quantities) Lift Force perpendicular to
FF3 FF(3) N
(force) translatory velocity
ity) Longitudinal centre of Distance of centre of gravity
FG XFG m
gravity from forward per- from forward perpendicular
pendicular
Distance of centre of gravity
FG XFG Longitudinal centre of grav- m
from forward perpendicular
ity, from forward perpendic-
ular
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name
(sailing vessels) Heeling

FH N
force of sails
Fhu FH(U) N
Generalized hydrodynamic
force
Projection of hull - ice inter-
(ice going vessels) Normal
FIN FNIC action force on the external N
ice force on a body
normal
Projection of the hull - ice
(ice going vessels) Tangen-
FIT FTIC interaction force on the di- N
tial ice force on a body
rection of motion
Fi F(I) i = 1, 2, 3 N
forces) Vibratory force
(ships, seakeeping) Wave
FL FS(2) Alias horizontal! N
excited lateral shear force
FN FS(3) Alias vertical!Remark2419 N
excited normal shear force
(hull geometry) Fore perpen-
FP FP
dicular
(ships, performance) Force
FP FP N
pulling or towing a ship
(ships, performance) Pull
FP0 FP0 N
during bollard test
Fr FN V / (g L)1/2 1
rameter) Froude number
(sailing vessels) Driving
FR N
force of sails
(hydrofoil boats) Froude
Frc FNC number based on chord V / (g cM)1/2 1
length
Frh FH rameter) Froude depth num- V / (g h)1/2 1
ber
(ice going vessels) Froude
FrI FNIC number based on ice thick- V / (g hI)1/2 1
ness
(hydrofoil boats) Froude
FrL FNFD number based on foil dis- V / (g LF)1/2 1
tance
Fr∇ FV rameter) Froude displace- V / (g ∇1/3)1/2 1
ment number
FSi FS(I) FS02 , FS03 N
loads) Shearing force
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name

loads) Force or load acting
FSi = FS0i N
FSu FS(U) at a given planar cross-sec-
FS3+i = FS1i = MBi Nm
tion of the body, general-
ized, in section coordinates!
FT,
FT loads) Tensioning or normal FS01 N
FS(1)
force
(planing, semi-displacement Drag forces arising from ap-
vessels) Appendage drag pendages inclined to flow,
FTA FTAPP N
force (parallel to reference assumed to act parallel to
line) the reference line
(planing, semi-displacement Viscous component of bot-
vessels) Bottom frictional tom drag forces assumed
FTB FTBOT N
force (parallel to reference acting parallel to the refer-
line) ence line
Drag forces arising from
vessels) Keel or skeg drag
FTK FTKL keel or skeg, assumed to act N
force (parallel to reference
parallel to the reference line
line)
(planing, semi-displacement Drag forces arising from in-
vessels) Additional rudder fluence of propeller wake on
FTRP FTRP N
drag force (parallel to refer- the rudder assumed to act
ence line) parallel to the reference line
(solid body mechanics, MFu = MMu
Fu F(U) loads) Force, generalized, Fi = F0i N
load, in body coordinates F3+i = F1i
(ships, unsteady propeller u = 1,.., 6 N
Fu FG(I) forces) Generalized vibra- u = 1, 2, 3: force N
tory force u = 4, 5, 6: moment Nm
(sailing vessels) Vertical
FV N
force of sails
(ice going vessels) Compo-
FXI FXIC N
nents of the local ice force
(fundamental, statistical)
Fx XPF Probability function (distri- 1
bution) of a random quantity
FX,
Fx loads) Force in direction of Nm
F0(1), F(1)
body axis x
Joint probability function
Fxy XYPF 1
(distribution) function of
two random quantities
FYI FYIC N
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name

FY,
Fy loads) Force in direction of N
F0(2), F(2)
body axis y
FZI FZIC N
FZ,
Fz loads) Force in direction of N
F0(3), F(3)
body axis z
Functional relationship be-
tween measurand Y and in-
put quantities Xi on which Y
f (uncertainty) Function depends, and between out- 1
put estimate y and input esti-
mates xi on which y de-
pends.
quency domain quantity,
ships, seakeeping, environ-
f FR 2πω=1 / T Hz
mental mechanics, wave,
ships, basic quantities)
Frequency
(ships, hull geometry, hydro-
statics, stability, seakeeping, From the freeboard mark-
f FREB large amplitude motions, ings to the freeboard deck, m
capsizing) according to official rules
Freeboard
f FBP m
Camber of a foil section
Maximum separation of me-
f FM Camber of an aerofoil or a m
dian and nose-tail line
hydrofoil
Ratio of tangential force to
f FC normal force between two 1
Friction coefficient
sliding bodies
Distance between RAA and
vessels)
fAA FRAA centre of gravity (measured m
Lever of wind resistance
normal to RAA)
RAA
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between RAP and
fAP FRAP vessels) Lever of appendage centre of gravity (measured m
drag RAP normal to RAP)
fBL CABL ABL / (L T) 1
coefficient for bulbous bow
(ships, hull geometry) Tay-
fBT CABT lor sectional area coefficient ABT / AX 1
for bulbous bow
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name

quency domain quantity)
fC FC 1 / TC Hz
Basic frequency in repeating
functions
fD FD m
Camber of duct profile
(ships, seakeeping) Fre-
fE FE 1 / TE Hz
quency of wave encounter
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between RF and
fF FRF vessels) Lever of frictional centre of gravity (measured m
resistance RF normal to RF)
Ratio of tangential force to
cient of friction between sur-
fID CFRD normal force between two 1
face of body and ice (dy-
bodies (dynamic condition)
namic)
The same as above (static
fIS CFRS cient of friction between sur- 1
condition)
face of body and ice (static)
(fluid mechanics, flow fields) Strength of force fields, usu-
fi FS(I) m/s2
Mass specific force ally only gravity field gi
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between RK and
fK FRK vessels) Lever of skeg or centre of gravity (measured m
keel resistance RK normal to RK)
fL FML faces) Camber of lower side m
(general)
Frequency at which the
fP FRPK waves) Spectral peak in fre- Hz
spectrum has its maximum
quency
fR FRRC 1 / TR Hz
waves) Frequency resolution
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between ΔRRP and
fR FDRR vessels)Lever of augmented centre of gravity (measured m
rudder drag ΔRRP normal to ΔRRP)
quency domain quantity, en-
1 / TS
fS FS, FRSA vironmental mechanics, Hz
period in repeating spectra
waves) Frequency of sam-
pling, Sample frequency
Distance between axial
thrust and centre of gravity
fS FSL vessels) Lever of axial pro- m
(measured normal to shaft
peller thrust
line)
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between RT and
fT FRT vessels) Lever of total re- centre of gravity (measured m
sistance RT normal to RT)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 F, f
Name
(ships, hull geometry) Sec-

fT ATR tional area coefficient for AT / AX 1
transom stern
fU FMU m
faces) Camber of upper side
fW FW waves) Basic wave fre- 1 / TW Hz
quency
(ships,performance) 𝑓𝑓w
Weather factor, a non-di- speed in wind and waves
mensional coefficient indi- =
𝑓𝑓𝑤𝑤 FWE speed in calm water 1
cating the decrease of speed 𝑉𝑉w
in representative sea condi- =
tions 𝑉𝑉ref
waves) Frequencies of har-
fWi FW(I) i fW Hz
monic components of a peri-
odic wave
fx XPD Probability density of a ran- d Fx / dx
dom quantity
fxy XYPD Joint probability density of ∂ 2 Fxy / (∂x∂y )
(ships, seakeeping) Natural
fz 1 / Tz Hz
frequency of heave
fθ 1 / Tθ Hz
frequency of pitch
fφ 1 / Tφ Hz
frequency of roll
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 G, g
Name

motions capsizing, ships, hy-
G
drostatics, stability) Centre
of gravity of a vessel
Gi = G0i = m0ij gj
G0i , Gi G0(I) loads) Gravity or weight N
= mgi
force in body coordinates!
loads) Gravity or weight G3+i = G1i = εikj xk G0j
G1i G1(I) Nm
moment in body coordi- = m1ij gj
nates!
motions capsizing) Vertical
GG1 GGV stability lever caused by a KG 1 = KG 0 + GG 1 m
weight shift or weight addi-
tion
drostatics, stability) Hori-
GG H GGH m
zontal stability lever caused
by a weight shift or weight
addition
drostatics, stability) Longi-
GG L GGL m
tudinal stability lever caused
by a weight shift or weight
addition
drostatics, stability) Vertical
GG V GG1 KG1= KG 0+GG 1 m
stability lever caused by a
weight shift or weight addi-
tion
Distance of centre of gravity
(seakeeping, large amplitude to the metacentre
drostatics, stability) Trans- GM = KM − KG
GM GM m
verse metacentric height (not corrected for free sur-
face effect)
motions capsizing, ships, hy- GM Corrected for free sur-
GM EFF GMEFF drostatics, stability) Effec- face and/or free communica- m
tive transverse metacentric tion effects
height
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 G, g
Name
(seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the centre of

motions capsizing, ships, hy- gravity G to the longitudinal
GM L GML metacentre ML m
drostatics, stability) Longi-
tudinal metacentric height GM L = KM L − KG
loads) Gravity or weight
Gu G(U) Gu = muv gv N
force, generalized, in body
coordinates!
motions capsizing) Arm of
GZ m
static stability corrected for
free surfaces - IMO/table
motions capsizing, ships, hy- GZ = AZ − AG V sin ϕ -
GZ GZ m
drostatics, stability) Right- AG T cos φ
ing arm or lever
GZ MAX GZMAX m
drostatics, stability) Maxi-
mum righting arm or lever
GZ GAP Gap between the propeller 2 π r sin (φ) / z m
blades
Weight force / mass,
(ships, basic quantities) Ac-
g G, GR strength of the earth gravity m/s2
celeration of gravity
field
g drostatics, stability) Centre 1
of gravity of an added or re-
moved weight (mass)
E(g) = ∫g(x)fx(x)dx
gE GMR Expected value of a function
of a random quantity x = -∞ ... ∞
gi G1(I) loads) Gravity field strength, m/s2
in body coordinates!
gM GMR Expected value of a function
of a random quantity x = -∞ ... ∞
gMR GMR Expected value of a function
x = -∞ ... ∞
of a random quantity
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 G, g
Name
(fundamental, statistical, M(g(t)) = lim(1/T ∫g(t)dt)

MR
g GMR stochastic) Mean of a func- t =-T/2 ... +T/2
tion of a random quantity T =-∞ ... +∞
stochastic) Average or sam- A(g(t)) = 1/T ∫g(t)dt
gMS GMS
ple mean of a function of a t =0 ... +T
random quantity
loads) Gravity field strength, gi = g1i
gu G(U) m/s2
generalized, in body coordi- g3+i = 0
nates
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 H, h
Name

H HT e / w = h +p/w +q/w m
Total head
H HT m
Height
H HBL layers) Boundary layer δ* / Θ 1
shape parameter
H (sailing vessels) Side force N
H1 HT1 jets) Local total head at sta- m
tion 1
jets) Mean increase of total
H35 H35 m
head across pump and stator
or several pump stages
(ACV and SES) Height of
HCG HVCG centre of gravity above mean m
water plane beneath craft
Minimum clearance of wet
(multi-hull vessels) Deck
HDK HCLDK deck from water surface at m
clearance
rest
(environmental mechanics, The vertical distance be-
Hd HD waves) Wave height by zero tween a crest and a succes- m
down-crossing sive trough.
HE HQF layers) Entrainment shape (δ - δ*) / Θ 1
parameter
(ACV and SES) Vertical
spacing between inner and
HH HH needs clarification m
outer side skirt hinges or at-
tachment points to structure
H ij water jets) Head between m
station i and j
(ships, propulsor geometry, PJSE
H JS m
water jets) Jet System Head QJ
motions capsizing) Heeling
HL
lever (due to various rea-
sons) - IMO/HSC'2000
waves) Significant wave
Hmo HMO height based on zeroth mo- 4 (m0)1/2 m
ment for narrow banded
spectrum
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 H, h
Name

HN HTNT Net useful head of turbo-en- m
gines
HSK HSK (ACV and SES) Skirt depth m
Depth of strut from still wa-
(multi-hull vessels) Strut
HSS HSS ter line to strut-hull intersec- m
submerged depth
tion
(ships, propulsor geometry) Distance between the propel-
HTC HTC m
Hull tip clearance ler sweep circle and the hull
HU HTUS Total head upstream of m
turbo-engines
(environmental mechanics, The vertical distance be-
Hu HU waves) Wave height by zero tween a trough and a succes- m
up-crossing sive crest
The vertical distance from
(environmental mechanics, wave crest to wave trough,
HW HW m
waves) Wave height or twice the wave amplitude
of a harmonic wave. ηC - ηT
waves) Significant wave
Average of the highest one
HW1/3 HW13 height. Sum of significant m
third wave heights
wave height of swell and
wind waves
(environmental mechanics, Average of the highest one
H1/3S H13S waves) Significant wave third wave heights of the m
height of swell swell.
(environmental mechanics, Average of the highest one
H1/3W H13W waves) Significant wave third wave heights of the m
height of wind waves. wind waves.
waves) Wave height esti-
HWV HWV m
mated from visual observa-
tion
waves) Estimate of signifi-
Hσ HWDS cant wave height from sam- m
ple deviation of wave eleva-
tion record
(fluid mechanics, flow fields) Δz0 ,
h HS m
Static pressure head z0-axis positive vertical up!
(ships, basic quantities,
h DE ships, manoeuvrability) m
Depth, Water depth
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 H, h
Name

h motions capsizing) Maxi- m
mum tank height
h m
distance from the centre of A
to the waterline
The depth of submergence
(ships, propulsor geometry) of the propeller measured
h0 H0 m
Immersion vertically from the propeller
centre to the free surface
water jets) maximum height
h1A m
of cross sectional area of
stream tube at station 1A
(ACV and SES) Bow seal Distance from side wall keel
hBS HBS m
height to lower edge of bow seal
motions capsizing) Height of
hCE m
centre of area of ASP above
waterline at SSM
(hydrofoil boats) Height of Distance of centre of gravity
hCG HVCG m
centre of gravity foil borne above mean water surface
Height of foil chord at foil
(hydrofoil boats) Flight
hF HFL borne mode above position m
height
at rest
(ice going vessels) Thickness
hI HTIC m
of ice
water jets) Height of jet cen-
hJ HJ m
treline above undisturbed
water surface
Distance between keel and
(hydrofoil boats) Keel clear-
hK HKE mean water surface foil m
ance
borne
hLP m
waterline above centre of
area of immersed profile
hM DEME m
Mean water depth
vessels) Wetted height of
hP HSP m
strut palms (flange mount-
ing)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 H, h
Name
hR HRU vessels) Wetted height of m
rudders
(ice going vessels) Thickness
hSN HTSN m
of snow cover
(ACV and SES) Stern seal Distance from side wall keel
hSS HSS m
height to lower edge of stern seal
hR HRU vessels) Wetted height of m
rudders
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 I, i
Name

I IM quency domain quantity) Im- 1
aginary variable
Ratio between velocities in-
I ID duced by helicoidal and by 1
Induction factor
straight line vortices
(ships, basic quantities) Mo- Second order moment of a
I I, IN kg m2
ment of inertia mass distribution
(sailing vessels) Fore trian-
I I m
gle height
I12 I2(1,2)
I23 I2(2,3) kg m2
Real products of inertia in
I31 I2(3,1)
case of non-principal axes
tial and hydro properties) 
Ihuv IH(U,V) ∂Fuh / ∂ V v
Generalized hydrodynamic
inertia
tial and hydro properties) Alias mass moments of iner-
Iij IN(I,J) kg m2
Second moments of mass, tia
i.e. inertia distribution
IAS ASI motions capsizing) Attained 1
subdivision index
tial and hydro properties) About transverse axis
IL IL m4
Longitudinal second mo- through centre of floatation
ment of water-plane area
tial and hydro properties) About longitudinal axis
IT IT m4
Transverse second moment through centre of floatation
of water-plane area
IVR IVR VI/V 1
jets) Intake velocity ratio
Ixy IXY kg m2
Iy , Iyy, IY, IYY, kg m2
Pitch moment of inertia
around the principal axis y
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 I, i
Name

Iyz IYZ kg m2
Iz , Izz IZ, IZZ, kg m2
Yaw moment of inertia
around the principal axis z
Izx IZX kg m2
i I quency domain quantity) Im- −1 1
aginary unit
(multi-hull vessels) Half an- Angle of inner water line
iEI ANENIN gle of entrance at tunnel (in- with reference to centre line rad
ner) side of demihull
Angle of outer water line
(multi-hull vessels) Half an-
iEO ANENOU with reference to centre line rad
gle of entrance at outer side
of demihull
Angle of waterline at the
(ships, hull geometry) Angle bow with reference to centre
iE ANEN rad
of entrance, half plane, neglecting local shape
at stem
The distance between the
(ships, propulsor geometry) propeller plane and the gen-
iG RK Rake erator line in the direction of m
ISO symbol: Rk the shaft axis. Aft displace-
ment is positive rake.
Angle of waterline at the
(ships, hull geometry) Angle stern with reference to the
iR ANRU rad
of run, half centre-plane, neglecting lo-
cal shape of stern frame
The axial displacement of a
blade section which occurs
iS RAKS when the propeller is m
Rake, skew-induced
skewed. Aft displacement is
positive rake
The axial displacement of
the blade reference line from
iT RAKT the propeller plane m
Rake, total
iG + iS = cS sinφ
Positive direction is aft.
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 J, j
Name

J JEI mance) Propeller advance VA / (D n) 1
ratio
(sailing vessels) Fore trian-
J J m
gle base
JA JA mance) Apparent or hull ad- V / (D n) = VH / (D n) 1
vance ratio
JH JH mance) Apparent or hull ad- V / (D n) = VH / (D n) 1
vance ratio
JP JP mance) Propeller advance VP / (D n) 1
ratio for ducted propeller
mance) Advance ratio of
JPQ JPQ 1
propeller determined from
torque identity
JPT JPT 1
thrust identity
JQ JQ 1
torque identity
JT JT 1
thrust identity
JVR JVR VJ/V 1
jets)) Jet velocity ratio
j J quency domain quantity) In- -∞ ...+∞ s
teger values
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 K, k
Symbol Name
(ships, hydrostatics, stability

K
motions capsizing) Keel ref-
erence
keeping, solid body mechan-
K MX ics, loads) Roll moment on Nm
body, moment about body x-
axis
K KS keeping) Gain factor in linear 1/s
manoeuvring equation
K K loads) Moment around body Nm
axis x
(ships, performance) Ship
K1 C1 model correlation factor for ηDS / ηDM 1
propulsive efficiency
(ships, performance) Ship
K2 C2 model correlation factor for nS / nM 1
propeller rate revolution
(ships, hydrostatics, stability,
seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the assumed
KA ZKA motions capsizing) Assumed centre of gravity A to the m
centre of gravity above moulded base or keel K
moulded base or keel
Scale effect correction factor
(ships, performance) Ap- for model appendage drag
KAPP KAP 1
pendage correction factor applied at the towing force in
a self-propulsion test
seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the centre of
KB ZKB motions capsizing) Centre of buoyancy B to the moulded m
buoyancy above moulded base or keel K
base or keel
(4 π)1/2 Fr∇ or
KC CIRCK Froude's speed displacement 1
(4π/g)1/2VK/∇1/6
coefficient
KFi KF(I) forces) Vibratory force Fi / (ρ n2 D4) 1
coefficients
According to definitions of
KFu KF(U) forces) Generalized vibratory 1
KFi and KMi
force coefficients
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 K, k
Symbol Name

seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from centre of grav-
KG ZKG motions capsizing) Centre of ity G to the moulded base or m
gravity above moulded base keel K
or keel
Distance from centre of grav-
Kg ZKAG ity, g, to the moulded base or m
centre of gravity of added or
keel K
removed weight above
(ships, propulsor geometry, gH
KH
water jets) Head coefficient: n2 D5
seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the transverse
KM ZKM motions capsizing) Trans- metacentre M to the moulded m
verse metacentre above base or keel K
KMi KM(I) forces) Vibratory moment Mi / (ρ n2 D5) 1
coefficients
seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the longitudi-
KM L ZKML motions capsizing) Longitu- nal metacentre ML to the m
dinal metacentre above moulded base or keel K
KP KP mance) Delivered power co- PD / (ρ n3 D5) = 2 π KQ 1
efficient
Kp KPR p / (ρ n2 D2) 1
forces) Pressure coefficient
KQ KQ mance, hull resistance, water Q / (ρ n2 D5) 1
jets)) Torque coefficient
(ships, hull resistance, water QJ
K QJ 1
jets) Flow rate coefficient: nD 3
mance) Torque coefficient of
KQ0 KQ0 KQ.ηR 1
propeller converted from be-
hind to open water condition
mance) Torque coefficient of
KQT KQT 1
thrust coefficient identity
(ice going vessels) Average
KQIA KQICMS QIA / (ρW nIA2 D5) 1
coefficient of torque in ice
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 K, k
Symbol Name

KSC KSC mance) Centrifugal spindle QSC / (ρ n2 D5) 1
torque coefficient
KSH KSH mance) Hydrodynamic spin- QSH / (ρ n2 D5) 1
dle torque coefficient
KR KR sistance coefficient corre- R / (ρ D4 n2) 1
sponding to KQ, KT
KT KT T / (ρ n2 D4) 1
mance) Thrust coefficient
mance) Duct thrust coeffi-
KTD KTD TD / (ρ n2 D4) 1
cient for a ducted propeller
unit
KTIA KTICMS TIA / (ρW nIA2 D4) 1
coefficient of thrust in ice
mance) Propeller thrust coef-
KTP KTP TP / (ρ n2 D4) 1
ficient for a ducted propeller
unit
𝐾𝐾𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇 KTQ mance) Thrust coefficient 1
achieved by torque identity
mance) Total thrust coeffi-
KTT KTT KTP+ KTD 1
cient for a ducted propeller
unit
(uncertainty) Coverage fac- For calculation of expanded
k 1
tor k uncertainty U = kuc(y)
Roughness height, usually in
k HK rameter) Roughness height m
terms of some average
or magnitude
k WN 2 π / LW = ω2/g 1/m
waves) Wave number
(ships, hull resistance) Three
k K dimensional form factor on (CV - CF0) / CF0 1
flat plate friction
k RDGX (Ixx/m)1/2 m
Roll radius of gyration
around the principal axis x
motions capsizing) Roll
k 1
damping coefficient express-
ing the effect of bilge keels
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 K, k
Symbol Name
(uncertainty) Coverage fac- For calculation of expanded

kp 1
tor for probability p uncertainty Up = kpuc(y)
(ships, resistance and pro-
pulsion, propulsor perfor-
kP KP m
mance) Roughness height of
Propeller blade surface
Mean diameter of the equiva-
kS SK lent sand grains covering a m
rameter) Sand roughness
surface
pulsion, ship performance)
kS KHS m
Roughness height of Hull
surface
kx, kxx RDGX (Ixx/m)1/2 m
Roll radius of gyration
around the principal axis x
ky, kyy RDGY (Iyy/m)1/2 m
Pitch radius of gyration
kz, kzz RDGZ (Izz/m)1/2 m
Yaw radius of gyration
(ships, hull resistance) Wind
k(θ) WDC CAA/ CAA0 1
direction coefficient
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 L, l
Symbol Name
Reference length of ship

L L (generally length between m
Length of ship
the perpendiculars)
L L, LE m
Length
(ships, basic quantities) Lift Force perpendicular to trans-
L FF(3) N
(force) latory velocity
motions capsizing) Length
L
of the vessel on the waterline m
in maximum load condition -
IMO/IS
(mechanics in general, solid
L L body mechanics) Angular L = Iω (= r2mv) Kg m s-1
momentum
L0 LF0 faces) Lift force for angle of CL0 AFT q N
attack of zero
(hydrofoil boats) Profile lift
L0 LF0 force for angle of attack of CL0 AFT q N
zero
(ACV and SES) Deformed
LB LB m
bag contact length
Lb LSB Nv / Y v m
keeping) Static stability lever
LC LC vessels) Wetted chine length, m
underway
LC LAC m
length
Longitudinal distance from
reference point to the centre
LCB XCB ity) Longitudinal centre of m
of buoyancy, B such as XMCF
buoyancy (LCB)
from Midships
LCF XCF ity) Longitudinal centre of m
of flotation, F such as XMCF
flotation (LCF)
from Midships
Longitudinal distance from a
LCG XCG ity) Longitudinal centre of m
of gravity, G such as XMCG
gravity (LCG)
from Midships
(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of prismatic part of
LCH LCH m
of centre section of hull hull
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 L, l
Symbol Name
(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of prismatic part of

LCS LCS m
of centre section of strut strut
LD LD m
Duct length
Axial distance between lead-
LDEN LDEN ing edge of duct and propel- m
Duct entry part length
ler plane
Axial distance between pro-
LDEX LDEX peller plane and trailing edge m
Duct exit length
of duct
Ld LSR keeping) Damping stability (Nr - muxG) / (Yr - mu) m
lever
From the forward perpendic-
(ships, hull geometry) ular to the forward end of
LE LEN m
Length of entrance parallel middle body, or
maximum section
(ACV and SES) Effective
LE LACE AC / BC m
length of cushion
(sailing vessels) Effective
LEFF LEFF m
length for Reynolds Number
(ships, appendage geometry) Measured in direction paral-
LF LF m
Length of flap or wedge lel to keel
(hydrofoil boats) Lift force
LF LF CL AFT q N
on foil
LFF LFF CL AFF q N
on front foil
LFR LFR CL AFR q N
on rear foil
LFS LFS used for structures m
Frame spacing
(multi-hull vessels) Box
LH LH Length of main deck m
length
(ACV and SES) Horizontal
LH LH needs clarification m
(sailing vessels) Hydrody-
LHY N
namic lift force
LK LK vessels) Wetted keel length, m
underway
LM LM vessels) Mean wetted length, (LK + LC) / 2 m
underway
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 L, l
Symbol Name
(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of nose section of

LNH LNH m
of nose section of hull hull with variable diameter
(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of nose section of
LNS LNS m
of nose section of strut strut with variable thickness
LOA LOA m
Length, overall
LOS LOS m
Length, overall submerged
Length of constant trans-
LP LP Length of parallel middle m
verse section
body
𝐿𝐿𝑝𝑝
2
(underwater noise) 𝑝𝑝̅𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
𝐿𝐿𝑝𝑝 SPL = 10 log10 � 2 � dB, 𝑝𝑝𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
Sound pressure level 𝑝𝑝𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
= 1 µPa
LPB LPB m
Length of Pod Main Body
(ships, hull geometry) Code length of bottom fin
LPBF LPBF m
Length of Bottom Fin under pod main body
LPP LPP Length between perpendicu- m
lars
Length of chine projected in
LPR LPRC vessels) Projected chine m
a plane parallel to keel
length
(ships, hull geometry) Code length of strut between
LPS LPS m
Length of Upper Strut forward edge and aft edge
From section of maximum
area or after end of parallel
LR LRU middle body to waterline ter- m
Length of run
mination or other designated
point of the stern
(multi-hull vessels) Strut Length of strut from leading
LS LS m
length to trailing edge
(ACV and SES) Distance of
leading skirt contact point
LS LS needs clarification m
out-board or outer hinge of
attachment point to structure
𝐿𝐿s
(underwater noise) = 𝐿𝐿p
Underwater sound radiated 𝑑𝑑
𝐿𝐿s SRNL
noise level at a reference dis- + 20 log10 � � dB, 𝑑𝑑𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
tance of 1m 𝑑𝑑𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
= 1m
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 L, l
Symbol Name
LSB LSB vessels) Total length of m
shafts and bossings
(multi-hull vessels) Length
LSH LSH m
of submerged hull
(ships, hull geometry) Sta-
LSS LSS m
tion spacing
LTO LT0 CLTO AFT q N
at take off
LVHD LVD vessels) Vertical component N
of hydrodynamic lift
LVS LVS Due to buoyancy N
vessels) Hydrostatic lift
The horizontal distance be-
LW LW tween adjacent wave crests m
waves) Wave length
in the direction of advance
Measured in the direction of
LWV LWV waves) Wave length esti- m
wave propagation
mated by visual observation
LWL LWL m
Length of waterline
l XTA XCG - XCB m
Longitudinal trimming arm
motions capsizing) Arm of
l m
dynamic stability corrected
for free surfaces - IMO/table
l motions capsizing) Maxi- m
mum tank length
lb LSB N /Y m
keeping) Static stability lever v v
Streamwise dimension of a
lC LC fully-developed cavitating m
Cavity length
region
(planing, semi-displacement Distance between centre of
lCP LCP vessels) Lever of resultant of pressure and aft end of plan- m
pressure forces, underway ing surface
ld LSR keeping) Damping stability (Nr - muxG) / (Yr - mu) m
lever
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 L, l
Symbol Name
(hydrofoil boats) Horizontal

distance of centre of pres-
lF LEFF m
sure of front foil to centre of
gravity
distance between centres of
lFR LEFR lF + lR m
pressure of front and rear
foils
The length of the hub, in-
lh LH Hub length cluding any fore and aft m
shoulder
Length of the hub taken
from the propeller plane to
lha LHA Hub length, aft m
the aft end of the hub includ-
ing aft shoulder
Length of the hub taken
from the propeller plane to
lhf LHF Hub length, fore m
the fore end of the hub in-
cluding fore shoulder
distance of centre of pres-
lR LERF m
sure of rear foil to centre of
gravity
lr LHRD turning circles) Loop height rad/s
of r-δ curve for unstable ship
motions capsizing) Actual
ls length of enclosed super- m
structure extending from
side to side of the vessel
lw motions capsizing) Wind m
heeling lever
lδ LWRD turning circles) Loop width rad
of r-δ curve for unstable ship
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 M, m
Symbol Name
(ships, basic quantities) Mo- First order moment of a

M M1, F1 Nm
ment of forces force distribution
(ships, basic quantities) Mo-
M MO Ns
mentum
M MR stochastic) Expectation, pop-
ulation mean
ity) (seakeeping, large am- See subscripts for qualifica-
M Nm
plitude motions capsizing) tion
Metacentre of a vessel
M, M, loads) Moment around body
axis y
keeping) Pitch moment on
M MY Nm
body, moment about body y-
axis
(hydrofoil boats) Vessel
M MSP Nm
pitching moment
M MS (hull geometry) Midships
Ma MN V/c 1
rameter) Mach number
MBi MB(I) FS12 , FS13 Nm
loads) Bending moment
(ships, hull geometry) R.E.
MC CIRCM Froude's length coefficient, L / ∇1/3 1
or length-displacement ratio
motions capsizing) Maxi-
MC Nm
mum offset load moment
due to crew
motions capsizing) Mini-
Mc mum capsizing moment as Nm
determined when account is
taken of rolling
(hydrofoil boats) Load factor
MF MLF LFF / Δ 1
of front foil
motions capsizing) Free sur-
MFS Nm
face moment at any inclina-
tion
Mi M(I) i = 1, 2, 3 Nm
forces) Vibratory moment
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 M, m
Symbol Name

MB(3),
ML excited lateral bending mo- Alias horizontal! Nm
FS(6)
ment
jets) Momentum flux at sta- ∫∫ ρ ui ( u j n j ) dA

M is W
As
tion s in i direction
MB(2),
MN excited normal bending mo- Alias vertical! Nm
FS(5)
ment
M, MR MR stochastic) Expectation, pop-
ulation mean
(hydrofoil boats) Load factor
MR MLR LFR / Δ 1
of rear foil
MR motions capsizing) Heeling Nm
moment due to turning
(ships, hydrostatics, stabil- ∆GZ Other moments such as
ity, seakeeping, large ampli- those of capsizing, heeling,
MS MS tude motions capsizing) Mo- etc. will be represented by Nm
ment of ship stability in gen- MS with additional sub-
eral scripts as appropriate
MS MS stochastic) Average, sample 1
mean
MT(1), (ships, seakeeping) Wave
MT Nm
FS(4) excited torsional moment
MT,
MT loads) Twisting or torsional FS11 Nm
MB(1)
moment
MTC MTC tude motions capsizing) Mo- Nm/cm
ment to change trim by one
centimetre
MTM MTM tude motions capsizing) ΔCMTL Nm/m
Moment to change trim by
one meter
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 M, m
Symbol Name

forces, solid body mechan-
ics, inertial and hydro prop- Mij = M0ij
erties) Generalized mass, i. Mi, 3+j = M1Tij
Muv MA(U,V) kg
e. generalized inertia tensor M3+i, j = M1ij
of a (rigid) body referred to M3+i , 3+j = M2ij
a body fixed coordinate sys-
tem
MW Nm
mum heeling moment due to
wind
motions capsizing) Dynami-
Mv Nm
cally applied heeling mo-
ment due to wind pressure
Mx , M(1), loads) Moment around body Nm
axis x
My , M, M(2), loads) Moment around body Nm
axis y
Mz , M(3) loads) Moment around body Nm
axis z
(ships, basic quantities, solid
M, MA,
m body mechanics, inertial and kg
MASS
hydro properties) Mass
ity) Longitudinal centre of
m XACB reference point to the centre m
floatation of added buoyant
of the added buoyant layer, b
layer
m SHIPMA W/g kg
Ship mass
Maximum transverse area of
m BLCK model ship divided by tank 1
Blockage parameter
cross section area
m0ij , M0(I,J),
Zeroth moments of mass, i.e. mij = m δij kg
mij MA(I,J)
inertia distribution, mass
tensor
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 M, m
Symbol Name

tial and hydro properties) Alias static moments of
m1ij M1(I,J) kg m
First moments of mass, i.e. mass
inertia distribution
m222 , M2(2,2), tial and hydro properties)
kg m2
m55 MA(5,5) Pitch moment of inertia
m233 , M2(3,3), tial and hydro properties)
kg m2
m66 MA(6,6) Yaw moment of inertia
tial and hydro properties) Alias mass moments of iner-
m2ij , M2(I,J), kg m2
Second moments of mass, tia
i.e. inertia distribution
mLCC motions capsizing) Mass in kg
light craft condition
motions capsizing) Mass in
mLDC kg
loaded displacement condi-
tion according to …
mMTL motions capsizing) Maxi- kg
mum total load (mass)
mn MN waves) n-th moment of wave ∫fn S(f)df m2/ sn
power spectral density
motions capsizing) Mass in
mSSC kg
standard sailing conditions
according to …
1/n Σ xi , i = 1...n
(fundamental, statistical) unbiased random estimate of
mx XMS Average or sample mean of the expectation with
a random quantity xAE = xE
xVSE = xV / n
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 N, n
Symbol Name
(ships, basic quantities) Fre- Alias RPS (RPM in some

N FR, N Hz
quency or rate of revolution propulsor applications)
Number of input quantities
(uncertainty) Number of in-
N Xi on which the measurand Y 1
put quantities
depends
keeping) Yaw moment on
N MZ Nm
body, moment about body z-
axis
N, M(3),
N loads) Moment around body Nm
F1(3), F(6)
axis z
Lift forces arising from ap-
pendages inclined to flow,
NA NAPP vessels) Appendage lift force N
assumed to act normally to
(normal to reference line)
reference line
(planing, semi-displacement Resultant of pressure and
vessels) Bottom normal buoyant forces assumed act-
NB NBOT N
force (normal to reference ing normally to the reference
line) line
NP NPR 1
Number of propellers
Resultant of propeller pres-
vessels) Propeller pressure
NPP NPP sure forces acting normally N
force (normal to reference
to the reference line
line)
Resultant of propeller suc-
vessels) Propeller suction
NPS NPS tion forces acting normally N
to the reference line
line)
keeping) Derivative of yaw
Nr NR ∂N / ∂r Nms
moment with respect to yaw
velocity
Resultant of rudder pressure
vessels) Rudder pressure
NRP NRP forces acting normally to the N
reference line
line)
N r NRRT ∂N ∂ r Nms2
moment with respect to yaw
acceleration
(ships, hull resistance, water u6ξ
NVR 1
jets) Nozzle velocity ratio: U0
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 N, n
Symbol Name

Nv NV ∂N / ∂v Ns
moment with respect to
sway velocity
N v NVRT ∂N ∂ v Nms2
moment with respect to
sway acceleration
Nδ ND ∂N / ∂δ Nm
moment with respect to rud-
der angle
Number of repeated observa-
n 1
tions
(ships, basic quantities, per-
formance, propulsor perfor- Alias RPS (RPM in some
n FR, N Hz
mance) Frequency or rate of propulsor applications)
revolution
n Hz
jets) Impeller rotation rate
(ships, seakeeping) Mean in-
nAW NAW creased rate of revolution in 1/s²
waves
ni jets) Unit normal vector in i 1
direction
nIA FRICMS rate of propeller revolution Hz
in ice
mance) Propeller rate of rev-
𝑛𝑛T 𝑛𝑛T = 𝐶𝐶𝑁𝑁 ⋅ 𝑛𝑛S 1
olution, corrected using cor-
relation factor
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 O, o
Symbol Name

OG m
centre of gravity above wa-
terline
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 P, p
Symbol Name

P P, PO W
Power
P PT Pa
layers) Total pressure
Ρ PITCH m
Propeller pitch in general
(sailing vessels) Mainsail
P P m
height
(mechanics in general, solid
P P body mechanics) Linear mo- P=mv Kg m s-1
mentum
(ships, seakeeping) Mean
PAW PAW W
power increased in waves
(ships, performance) Brake Power delivered by prime
PB PB W
power mover
𝑃𝑃BW PBW Brake power in representa- W
tive sea condition
PD PD stochastic) Probability den- 1
sity
(ships, performance) Deliv-
PD PD, PP Qω W
ered power, propeller power
PD jets) Delivered Power to W
pump impeller
(ice going vessels) Delivered
PDI PDI 2 π QIA nIA W
power at propeller in ice
𝑃𝑃D𝑇𝑇 PDT Delivered Power, corrected 𝑃𝑃DT = 𝐶𝐶𝑃𝑃 ⋅ 𝑃𝑃DS W
using correlation factor
(ships, performance) Effec-
PE PE, PR RV W
tive power, resistance power
PE RTBHU 0 W
jets) Effective power:
PF PF stochastic) Probability func- 1
tion
(ACV and SES) Power of lift
PFCU PFCU W
fan
(ACV and SES) Power of
PFSK PFSK W
skirt fan
(ships, performance) Indi- Determined from pressure
PI PI W
cated power measured by indicator
PJ PJ ηTJ T VA W
mance) Propeller jet power
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 P, p
Symbol Name
(ships, hull resistance, wa-

PJSE ter jets) Effective Jet Sys- QJ H1A7 W
tem Power
(propulsion, propulsor)
Pm PM m
Propeller mean pitch
(propulsion, propulsor)
PMB PMB m
Blade mean pitch
seakeeping) P-number,
Pn PN heading change per unit 1
rudder angle in one ship
length
(ships, performance) Deliv-
PP PD, PP Qω W
ered power, propeller power
PPE ter jets) Pump effective QJ H 35 W
power:
(ships, performance) Effec-
PR PE, PR RV W
tive power, resistance power
(ships, performance) Shaft
PS PS Power measured on the shaft W
power
(ships, performance) Thrust
PT PTH T VA W
power
PTE W
jets) Effective thrust power
PV motions capsizing) Wind Pa
pressure
Level of confidence: 0 ≤ p ≤
p (uncertainty) Probability 1
1.0
(solid body mechanics, rigid
p P body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
locity around body axis x
p PR, ES Pressure, density of static Pa
flow energy
p PR Pa
layers) Static pressure
p PDR Pitch ratio P/D 1
ISO Symbol: P/D
p PR Pa
forces) Pressure
p OX, P Roll velocity, rotational ve- 1/s
locity about body x-axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 P, p
Symbol Name

p0 P0 Ambient pressure in undis- Pa
turbed flow
p0 PR0 jets) Ambient pressure in un- N/m²
disturbed flow
pA PA Pa
Ambient pressure
(fluid mechanics, cavitation) Absolute ambient pressure at
pAC PACO Pa
Collapse pressure which cavities collapse
Absolute ambient pressure at
pAI PAIC which cavitation inception Pa
Critical pressure
takes place
(ACV and SES) Mean bag
pB PBM Pa
pressure
(ACV and SES) Bow seal
pBS PBS Pressure in the bow seal bag Pa
pressure
(fluid mechanics, cavitation) Pressure within a steady or
pC PC Pa
Cavity pressure quasi-steady cavity
Pressure, may be negative,
pCI PCIN i. e. tensile strength, neces- Pa
Initial cavity pressure
sary to create a cavity
(ACV and SES) Mean effec-
pCE PCE Pa
tive skirt pressure
(ACV and SES) Cushion Mean pressure in the cush-
pCU PCU Pa
pressure ion
(ACV and SES) Fan total
pFT PFT Pa
pressure
pLR PLR PCU / LC Pa/m
pressure to length ratio
ps jets) Local static pressure at Pa
station s
(ACV and SES) Skirt pres-
pSK PSK Pa
sure in general
(ACV and SES) Stern seal
pSS PSS Pressure in the stern seal bag Pa
pressure
pV PV At a given temperature! Pa
Vapour pressure of water
body motions) Rates of
p PR change of components of ro- rad/s2
tational velocity relative to
body axes
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 P, p
Symbol Name
Roll acceleration, angular
p OXRT, PR dp / dt 1/s2
acceleration about body x-
axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Q, q
Name
Q Q (ships, performance) Torque PD / ω Nm

(fundamental, balances and
Q system related) Quantity un- QU/s
der consideration
QF, (fluid mechanics, flow fields) Volume passing across a
Q m3/s
QFLOW Rate of flow control surface in time unit
b
Q QF ∫U dy m2/s
layers) Entrainment
a
Q
Nm
jets) Impeller torque
QAW QAW Nm
torque increased in waves
(ACV and SES) Bow seal air
QBS QBS Air flow rate to the bow seal m3/s
flow rate
Qbl jets) Volume flow rate inside m³/s
boundary layer
QC QCF system related) Convective QU/s
flux
(ACV and SES) Cushion air
QCU QCU Air flow rate to cushion m3/s
flow rate
QD QDF system related) Diffusive QU/s
flux
system related) Total flux
QF QFL Inward positive! QU/s
across the surface of the con-
trol volume
QFB QFB Nm
keeping) Torque of bow fin
QFS QFS Nm
keeping) Torque of stern fin
QIA QIMS Nm
torque in ice
QJ jets) Volume flow rate m³/s
through water jet system
QM QDM system related) Molecular QU/s
diffusion
system related) Production
QP QPN QU/s
of sources in the control vol-
ume
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Q, q
Name

QR QRU keeping) Torque about rud- Nm
der stock
About spindle axis of con-
(ships, propulsor perfor- trollable pitch propeller
QS QSP Nm
mance) Spindle torque QS=QSC+ QSH
positive if it increases pitch
system related) Storage in
QS QRT dq / dt QU/s
the control volume, rate of
change of the quantity stored
QSC QSPC mance) Centrifugal spindle Nm
torque
QSH QSPH mance) Hydrodynamic spin- Nm
dle torque
(ACV and SES) Stern seal air
QSS QSS Air flow rate to the stern seal m3/s
flow rate
(ACV and SES) Total air vol-
QT QT m3/s
ume flow
QT QDT system related) Turbulent QU/s
diffusion
(ACV and SES) Total air vol-
QTS QTS m3/s
ume flow of skirt
(uncertainty) Random quan-
q 1
tity
q (uncertainty) Arithmetic
1
mean or average
system related) Quantity of
q QQ the quality under considera- QU
tion stored in a control vol-
ume
q UNQ N/m
loads) Load per unit length
q Q body motions) Rotational rad/s
velocity around body axis y
q PD, EK Dynamic pressure, density ρ V2 / 2 Pa
of kinetic flow energy,
(ships, hull resistance) Dy-
ρ V2 / 2
q PD, EK namic pressure, density of Pa
see 3.3.2
kinetic flow energy,
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Q, q
Name
q OY, Q Pitch velocity, rotational ve- 1/s
locity about body y-axis
Rates of change of compo-
q QR nents of rotational velocity rad/s2
relative to body axes
qA QA mance) Dynamic pressure ρ VA2 / 2 Pa
based on advance speed
kth independent repeated ob-
(uncertainty) kth observation
qk servation of randomly vary- 1
of q
ing quantity q
(ships, hull resistance) Dy-
PDWR, ρ VWR2/ 2
qR namic pressure based on ap- Pa
EKWR see 3.4.2
parent wind
mance) Dynamic pressure
qS QS ρ VS2 / 2 Pa
based on section advance
speed
Pitch acceleration, angular
q OYRT, QR dq / dt 1/s2
acceleration about body y-
axis
q QR change of components of ro- rad/s2
body axes
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 R, r
Name

R R quency domain quantity) exp(s TS) Laurent transform
Complex variable
(ships, basic quantities) Re- Force opposing translatory
R R, RE N
sistance (force) velocity
(ships, basic quantities) Ra-
R RD m
dius
R RDP m
Propeller radius
𝑅𝑅0 R0 Full scale resistance without N
overload
Incremental resistance to be
added to the smooth ship re-
RA RA Model-ship correlation al- N
sistance to complete the
lowance
model-ship prediction
(ships, hull resistance) Air or
RAA RAA N
wind resistance
RAPP RAP N
pendage resistance
RAR RAR N
Roughness resistance
(ACV and SES) Intake mo-
RASK RASK ρA QTS VA N
mentum resistance of skirt
(ships, seakeeping, sailing
RAW RAW vessels) Mean added re- N
sistance in waves
(ACV and SES) Total aero-
RAT RAT RM + R0 N
dynamic resistance
(ships, hull resistance) Re- RTM[(1 + k) CFMC + CR] /
sistance corrected for differ- [(1 + k) CFM + CR]
RC RC ence in temperature between where CFMC is the frictional N
resistance and self-propul- coefficient at the temperature
sion tests of the self-propulsion test
RC RCS turning circles) Steady turn- m
ing radius
Re RN VL/v 1
rameter) Reynolds number
rameter) Propeller Reynolds Re = c0.7 VA + ( 0.7π nD ) 1
2 2
Re0.7 RN07
number at 0.7 R
0.7
ν
layers) Reynolds number
Reδ* RDELS U δ* / v or Ue δ* / v 1
based on displacement thick- ∞
ness
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 R, r
Name

layers) Reynolds number
Reθ RTHETA U∞ Θ / v or Ue Θ / v 1
based on momentum thick-
ness
(ships, hull resistance) Fric- Due to fluid friction on the
RF RF N
tional resistance of a body surface of the body
(ships, hull resistance) Fric-
RF0 RF0 tional resistance of a flat N
plate
(multi-hull vessels) Fric-
RFINT RFINT tional resistance interference RFMH - Σ RF N
correction
(multi-hull vessels) Fric-
RFMH RFMH tional resistance of multi- N
hull vessel
(sailing vessels) Friction re-
RFU N
sistance (upright)
(ACV and SES) Hydrody-
RH RH RW + RWET N
namic resistance
(fluid mechanics, flow pa- Area of section divided by
RH RH m
rameter) Hydraulic radius wetted perimeter
(sailing vessels) Resistance
RH RTUHA increase due to heel (with N
zero side force)
RI increase due to side (induced N
resistance)
(ice going vessels) Net ice
RI RI RIT - RIW N
resistance
(ice going vessels) Total re-
RIT RIT Ship towing resistance in ice N
sistance in ice
(ice going vessels) Hydrody-
Total water resistance of
RIW RIW namic resistance in presence N
ship in ice
of ice
The displacement from the
propeller plane to the gener-
Rk RAKG ator line in the direction of m
Rake
the shaft axis. Aft displace-
ment is positive rake.
RK RKEEL N
vessels) Keel drag
RM RM ρ Q V N
mentum resistance in general A T A
RMCU RMCU mentum resistance of cush- ρA QCU VA N
ion
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 R, r
Name
(ships, hull resistance) Pres- Due to the normal stresses

RP RP N
sure resistance over the surface of a body
(planing, semi-displacement Drag due to inlet and outlet
RPAR RPAR N
vessels) Parasitic drag openings
RPS RSP vessels) Pressure component N
of spray drag
(ships, hull resistance) Vis- Due to normal stress related
RPV RPV N
cous pressure resistance to viscosity and turbulence
RR RR stochastic) Population corre-
lation
RR RR RT - RF or RT - RF0 N
siduary resistance
RRBH RRBH siduary resistance of the bare N
hull
(multi-hull vessels) Residu-
RRI RRINT ary resistance interference RRMH - Σ RR N
correction
(multi-hull vessels) Residu-
RRMH RRMH ary resistance correction of RTMH - RFMH N
multi-hull
(sailing vessels) Residuary
RRU N
resistance (upright)
(ships, hull resistance) Spray
RS RS Due to generation of spray N
resistance
RS RS
chastic) Sample correlation
RSI RSI 1
motions capsizing) Required
subdivision index
pulsion; planing, semi-dis-
RT RT Total towed resistance N
placement vessels) Total re-
sistance
RTBH RTBH jets) Total resistance of bare N
hull
(multi-hull vessels) Total re-
RTI RTINT sistance interference correc- RTMH - Σ RT N
tion
(multi-hull vessels) Total re-
RTMH RTMH N
sistance of multi-hull vessel
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 R, r
Name

RTU RTU N
sistance (upright)
𝑅𝑅Tw RTW Total resistance in wind and N
waves
RTφ RTUH RTU + Rφ N
sistance when heeled
(ships, propulsor perfor- Resistance of a podded drive
RU RU N
mance) Pod unit resistance unit
(ships, unsteady propeller u = 1,.., 6 N
Ru R(U) forces) Generalized vibra- u = 1, 2, 3: force N
tory bearing reaction u = 4, 5, 6: moment Nm
RV RV RF + RPV N
viscous resistance
RVS RSV vessels) Viscous component CF SWS qS N
of spray drag
(ships, hull resistance) Wave Due to formation of surface
RW RW N
making resistance waves
(ships, hull resistance) Wave Associated with the break
RWB RWB N
breaking resistance down of the bow wave
(ACV and SES) Resistance
RWET RWET N
due to wetting
RWP RWP N
pattern resistance
x(t)x(t + τ)E = Rxx(τ)
(fundamental, statistical, Rxx(τ) = Rxx(-τ)
stochastic) Auto-correlation if x is ergodic: xxR, xxRR,
Rxx XXRR
of a stationary stochastic Rxx(τ) = x(t)x(t + τ)MR Rxx
process Rxx(τ) = ∫ Sxx(ω)cos(ωτ)dτ
τ = 0 ... ∞
Rxx XXMR Auto-correlation of a ran- x xE
dom quantity
(fundamental, statistical, x(t)y(t + τ)E = Rxy(τ)
stochastic) Cross-correlation Ryx(τ) = Rxy(-τ)
Rxy XYRR xyR, Rxy
of two stationary stochastic if x, y are ergodic:
processes Rxy(τ) = x(t)y(t + τ)MR
Rxy XYMR Cross-correlation of two ran- x yE
dom quantities
Rπ RPI g ρ ∇ tg τ N
vessels) Induced drag
Rφ RTUHA increase due to heel (with N
zero side force)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 R, r
Name

r R body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
locity around body axis z
(ships, basic quantities) Ra-
r RD m
dius
r LR m
Blade section radius
r OZ, R Yaw velocity, rotational ve- 1/s
locity about body z-axis
(uncertainty) Estimated cor-
r(xi,xj) r(xi, xj) = u(xi, xj)/(u(xi) u(xj)) 1
relation coefficient
r R forces) Cylindrical coordi- m
nates
from the x-axis
r motions capsizing) Effective 1
wave slope coefficient
rC OZCI turning circles) Steady turn- 1/s
ing rate
rC ′ OZCINO turning circles) Non-dimen- rC LPP / UC or 2 LPP / DC m
sional steady turning rate
rh RH m
Hub radius
r RR change of components of ro- rad/s2
body axes
Yaw acceleration, angular
r OZRT, RR dr / dt 1/s2
acceleration about body z-
axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 S, s
Symbol Name

S S, AWS m2
of wetted surface
(ships, hull resistance) Wet-
S S SBH + SAPP m2
ted surface area, underway
(ships, hull resistance) Wet-
S0 S0 SBH0 + SAPP0 m2
ted surface area, at rest
Zeroth order moment of a
S0ij SM0(I,J) ∫δijds =δijS
scalar quantity
(fundamental. coordinate
and space related) First or-
S1ij SM1(I,J) der moment of a scalar quan- ∫εikjxkds
tity, formerly static moments
of a scalar distribution
and space related) Second
S2ij SM2(I,J) moment of a scalar quantity, ∫εklixlεjkm xmds
formerly moments of inertia
of a scalar distribution
SA SRA 1 - V / (n P) 1
mance) Apparent slip ratio
(sailing vessels) Sail area in
SA AS (P E + I J) / 2 m2
general
SAPP SAP pendage wetted surface area, m2
underway
SAPP0 SAP0 pendage wetted surface area, m2
at rest
(ships, hull resistance) Bare
SBH SBH Hull wetted surface area, un- m2
derway
(ships, hull resistance) Bare
SBH0 SBH0 Hull wetted surface area, at m2
rest
(ships, hull geometry, hull
resistance) R.E. Froude's
SC CIRCS S∇23 1
wetted surface area coeffi-
cient
(sailing vessels) Wetted sur-
SC SC m2
face area of canoe body
SH THL m
Total head loss
(ACV and SES) Wetted area
Total wetted area of side
SH0 SSH0 of side hulls at rest off cush- m2
walls under way on cushion
ion
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 S, s
Symbol Name
(environmental mechanics, Weight of salt per unit

SI SAIC 1
ice) Salinity of ice weight of ice
Si(f), EISF,
waves) Incident wave power m2/Hz
Si(ω) EISC
spectral density
SK SK m2
face area of keel
Sη(f), Sηη(f), EWSF, (ships, seakeeping) Wave el-
m2 s
Sη(ω), Sηη(ω) EWSC evation auto spectral density
Sη(f), EWSF,
waves) Wave power spectral m2/Hz
Sη(ω) EWSC
density
SR SRR 1 - VA / (n P) 1
mance) Real slip ratio
SR SR m²
face area of rudder
Sr(f), ERSF,
waves) Reflected wave m2/Hz
Sr(ω) ERSC
power spectral density
(planing, semi-displacement Wetted area between design
SS SWS vessels) Area wetted by line or stagnation line and m2
spray spray edge
SSHC SSHC of side hulls under way on m2
walls under way on cushion
cushion
SSH SSH of side hulls under way off m2
walls under way off cushion
cushion
St SN fL/V 1
rameter) Strouhal number
STIX STIX 1
stability index value accord-
ing to …
STIX STIXR motions capsizing) Required 1
stability index value, see …
(fundamental. coordinate Sij = S0ij
and space related) General- Si, 3+j = S1ijT
Suv S(U,V)
ized moment of a scalar S3+i, j = S1ij
quantity distributed in space S3+i, 3+j = S2ij
(environmental mechanics, Weight of dissolved salt per
SW SAWA 1
ice) Salinity of water unit weight of saline water
(planing, semi-displacement Area bounded by stagnation
SWB SWB vessels) Wetted bottom area, line, chines or water surface m2
underway underway and transom
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 S, s
Symbol Name
Wetted surface area of bilge

SWBK SWBK m2
keels
(planing, semi-displacement Principal wetted area
SWHP SWHP vessels) Wetted area under- bounded by trailing edge, m2
way of planing hull chines and spray root line
Total wetted surface of hull
underway, including spray
SWHE SWHE vessels) Wetted hull area, m2
area and wetted side area,
underway
w/o wetted transom area
Wetted area of the hull side
SWHS SWSH above the chine or the design m2
vessels) Area of wetted sides
water line
(planing, semi-displacement Wetted area between design
SWS SWS vessels) Area wetted by line or stagnation line and m2
spray spray edge
stochastic) Power spectrum
Sxx XXSR xxRRSR
or autospectral power den-
sity of a stochastic process
stochastic) Cross-power
Sxy XYSR xyRRSR
spectrum of two stationary
stochastic processes
Sζ (ω,μ) S2ZET (environmental mechanics,
Sθ (ω,μ) S2TET waves) Two dimensional 1
etc. etc. spectral density
Sρ(f,θ) m2/Hz/
STHETA waves) Directional spectral
Sζ(ω,μ) rad
density
and space related) Any sca-
s S ∫ds
lar quantity distributed,
maybe singularly, in space
a + 2πif
s S quency domain quantity) 1/s
Laplace transform
Complex variable
(ships, basic quantities) Dis-
s SP m
tance along path
s motions capsizing) Wave 1
steepness
sF SPF stopping man.) Distance m
along track, track reach
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 S, s
Symbol Name
Density of total diffusive

(fluid mechanics, flow fields) momentum flux due to mo-
sij ST(I,J) Pa
Total stress tensor lecular and turbulent ex-
change
sVij SV(I,J) Pa
Viscous stress
(uncertainty) Pooled experi- Positive square root of 2
sp sp
mental standard deviation
(uncertainty) Pooled esti-
sp2 1
mate of variance
s 2 (q ) = s 2 (qk ) /n ; estimated
(uncertainty) Experimental
s 2 (q ) variance obtained from a 1
variance of the mean
Type A evaluation
(uncertainty) Experimental Positive square root of
s (q ) standard deviation of the 1
s 2 (q )
mean
(uncertainty) Experimental
s 2 (qk ) variance from repeated ob- 1
servations
(uncertainty) Experimental Positive square root of
s 2 (qk )
s ( qk ) standard deviation of re- 1
peated observations
sRij SR(I,J) Turbulent or Reynolds stress ρ vivjCR Pa
From mean X i , determined
(uncertainty) Experimental from n independent repeated
s2 ( X i ) observations Xi,k, estimated 1
variance of input mean
variance obtained from a
Type A evaluation.
(uncertainty) Standard devi- Positive square root of
s( X i ) 1
ation of input mean s2 ( X 1)
s (q ,r )
(uncertainty) Estimate of co-
1
variance of means
(uncertainty) Estimate of co-
s ( X i ,X j ) 1
variance of input means
(ships, performance) Sink- Change of draft, fore and aft,
sV SINKV 1
age, dynamic divided by length
(fundamental, statistical) xVS 1/2,
sx XDS Sample deviation of a ran- unbiased random estimate of 1
dom quantity the standard deviation
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name
(ships, hull geometry, sea-

T T m
motions capsizing) Draught,
moulded, of ship hull
(ships, basic quantities, Duration of a cycle of a re-
T TC ships, seakeeping) Period, peating or periodic, not nec- s
Wave period essarily harmonic process
keeping) Time constant of
T TIC s
the 1st order manoeuvring
equation
T TH N
mance) Propeller thrust
T YHA motions capsizing) Equiva- Heeling moment/∆ m
lent transverse heeling arm
T01 T1 waves) Average period from m0/m1 s
zeroth and first moment
T02 T2 waves) Average period from (m0/m2)1/2 s
zeroth and second moment
T1 TIC1 keeping) First time constant s
of manoeuvring equation
T1/3d T13D Significant wave period By downcrossing analysis s
T1/3u T13U Significant wave period By upcrossing analysis s
keeping) Second time con-
T2 TIC2 s
stant of manoeuvring equa-
tion
T3 TIC3 keeping) Third time constant s
of manoeuvring equation
TA TA, TAP m
Draught at aft perpendicular
TAD TAD, TAPD sign draught at aft perpen- m
dicular
TAW TAW N
thrust increase in waves
(ships, hull geometry) R.E. T∇
13
TC CIRCT 1
Froude's draught coefficient
(fundamental, time and fre- 1 / fC
TC TC quency domain quantity) Pe- duration of cycles in peri- s
riod of cycle odic, repeating processes
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name

TC TC0 N
thrust
(sailing vessels) Draught of
TC TCAN m
canoe body
TD THDU mance) Duct thrust of a N
ducted propeller unit
TP THDP mance) Propeller thrust of a N
TT THDT mance) Total thrust of a N
(environmental mechanics, Time elapsing between two
Td TD waves) Wave periods by successive downward cross- s
zero down-crossing ings of zero in a record
(ships, seakeeping)
TE TE s
Wave encounter period
(sailing vessels) Effective
TEFF TEFF FH / (ρVB2R)5 m
draught
TF TF, TFP Draught at forward perpen- m
dicular
(hydrofoil boats) Foil im- Distance between foil chord
TF TFO m
mersion and mean water surface
TFD TFPD sign draught at forward per- m
pendicular
(hydrofoil boats) Depth of
Distance between foil apex
TFD TFD submergence of apex of a di- m
and mean water surface
hedral foil
(hydrofoil boats) Mean
TFM TFOM m
depth of foil submergence
(ships, hull geometry) Maximum draught of the
TH THUL m
Draught of the hull hull without keel or skeg
(fluid mechanics, cavitation,
fluid mechanics, flow pa- (HU - pV / w) / HN
Th TN 1
rameter) Thoma number (pA – pV)/q
Cavitation number
TIA TIMS N
total thrust in ice
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name
and space related) Tensor in
space referred to an orthogo- s
Tij T(I,J) Tij + Tija
nal system of Cartesian co-
ordinates
fixed in the body
TijA TAS(I,J) and space related) Anti- ( Tij - Tji ) / 2
symmetric part of a tensor
and space related) Symmet-
TijS TSY(I,J) ( Tij + Tji ) / 2
ric part of a tensor
T
Tij TTR(I,J) and space related) Trans- Tji
posed tensor
Tij vj and space related) Tensor Σ Tij vj
product
Jet thrust (can be measured
Tjx TJX directly in bollard pull con- N
dition)
TL motions capsizing) Turning 1
lever
(ships, hull geometry) (TA + TF) / 2 for rigid bodies
TM TM, TMS m
Draught at midship with straight keel
(ships, hull geometry) De- (TAD + TFD) / 2 for rigid bod-
TMD TMD, TMSD m
sign draught at midship ies
Tnet jets) Net thrust exerted by N
the jet system on the hull
TP TP waves) Period with maxi- 2πfP
mum energy
TPBS TPBS Bottom Thickness of Strut m
TR TR 1 / fR s
waves) Duration of record
The average interval in years
Trt TRT between times that a given
waves) Return period
design wave is exceeded
1 / fS ,
quency domain quantity, en-
time between two successive
TS TS vironmental mechanics, s
samples, Duration between
waves) Sample interval, Pe-
samples
riod of sampling
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name
Vertical depth of trailing

(ships, hull geometry) Im-
TT TTR edge of boat at keel below m
mersion of transom
water surface level
Pod unit resistance sub-
TU TU tracted from the propeller N
mance) Pod unit thrust, ,
thrust
(environmental mechanics, Time elapsing between two
Tu TU waves) Wave periods by successive upward crossings s
zero up-crossing of zero in a record
Time between the passage of
TW TW two successive wave crests s
waves) Basic wave period
past a fixed point. 1 / fW
waves) Wave period esti-
TWV TWV s
mated from visual observa-
tion
TxP TXP mance) Propeller Thrust N
along shaft axis
mance) Propeller normal
TyP TYP N
force in y direction in pro-
peller axis
Tz TNHE s
period of heave
mance) Propeller normal
TzP TZP N
force in z direction in propel-
ler axis
Tθ TNPI s
period of pitch
Tφ TNRO s
period of roll
t TI quency domain quantity, -∞ ... +∞ s
ships, basic quantities) Time
t TE K
Temperature
The intercept of the tangent
(ships, hull geometry) Taylor to the sectional area curve at
t TT 1
tangent of the area curve the bow on the midship ordi-
nate
t TM m
Blade section thickness
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name

Measured normal to mean
t TMX Maximum thickness of an m
line
aerofoil or a hydrofoil
t YHA ity) Equivalent transverse Heeling moment /Δ m
heeling arm
(ships, performance) Thrust
t THDF (T - RT) / T 1
deduction fraction
(ships, hull resistance, water R
t jets) Thrust deduction frac- (1 − t ) =TBH 1
Tnet
tion
Student t-distribution for v
(uncertainty) Inverse Stu- degrees of freedom corre-
tp(v) 1
dent t sponding to a given proba-
bility p
Student t-distribution for veff
(uncertainty) Inverse Stu- degrees of freedom corre-
tp(veff) dent t for effective degrees sponding to a given proba- 1
of freedom bility p in calculation of ex-
panded uncertainty Up
turning circles) Time to
t180 TI180 s
reach 180 degree change of
heading
tA TEAI °C
ice) Temperature of air
(ships, manoeuvrability, zig-
ta TIA zag man..) Initial turning s
time
tc1 TIC1 zag man..) First time to s
check yaw (starboard)
tc2 TIC2 zag man..) Second time to s
check yaw (port)
tD TD m
Thickness of duct profile
td DURATN s
wind) Wind duration
tF TIF stopping man.) Stopping s
time
thc TCHC zag man..) Period of changes s
in heading
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 T, t
Symbol Name
tI TEIC °C
ice) Local temperature of ice
tj TI(J) quency domain quantity) j TS
Sample time instances
motions capsizing ships, hy-
tKL TRIM TA - TF - dKL
drostatics, stability) Static
trim
tr TIR s
zag man) Reach time
ts TRIM TA - TF - dKL m
Static trim
(multi-hull vessels) Maxi-
tS TSTR m
mum thickness of strut
(ships, performance) Run-
tV TV m
ning trim
tW TEWA °C
ice) Temperature of water
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 U, u
Symbol Name

U U, UN Undisturbed velocity of a m/s
fluid
Expanded uncertainty of out-
put estimate y that defines an
interval Y = y ±U having a
high level of confidence,
U Expanded uncertainty
equal to coverage factor k
times the combined standard
uncertainty uc(y) of y: U = k
uc(y)
U0 m/s
jets) Free stream velocity
wind) Reference mean wind
U10 U10M U10 = (10/z)1/7 UzA m/s
speed at elevation 10 meters
above sea surface
UA UA mance) Axial velocity in- m/s
duced by propeller
UA USHEAR C101/2 U10 or 0.71U101.23 m/s
wind) Wind shear velocity
mance) Axial velocity in-
UAD UADU m/s
duced by duct of ducted pro-
peller
mance) Axial velocity in-
UAP UAP m/s
duced by propeller of ducted
propeller
UC UC turning circles) Speed in m/s
steady turn
layers) Velocity at the edge
Ue UE m/s
of the boundary layer at
y=δ995
Free stream velocity at
UI UNIN which cavitation inception m/s
Critical velocity
takes place
Ui UIN layers) Instantaneous veloc- m/s
ity
Um UMR layers) Time mean of veloc- m/s
ity in boundary layer
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 U, u
Symbol Name
Expanded uncertainty of out-

put estimate y that defines an
interval Y = y ±Up having a
Expanded uncertainty asso- high level of confidence p,
Up
ciated to confidence level p equal to coverage factor kp
times the combined standard
uncertainty uc(y) of y: Up =
kp uc(y)
UR UR mance) Radial velocity in- m/s
duced by propeller
mance) Radial velocity in-
URP URP m/s
duced by propeller of ducted
propeller
mance) Radial velocity in-
URD URDU m/s
duced by duct of ducted pro-
peller
UT UT mance) Tangential velocity m/s
induced by propeller
mance) Tangential velocity
UTD UTDU m/s
induced by duct of ducted
propeller
mance) Tangential velocity
UTP UTP m/s
induced by propeller of
ducted propeller
(Uz + uzi)A
wind) Average wind speed
UzA UZA UzA = (z/10)1/7 U10 or m/s
at elevation z above the sea
UzA = U10 + UA ln(z/10)
surface
U∞ UFS layers) Free-stream velocity m/s
far from the surface
U, VX,
body motions) Translatory
u V1(1), V(1) m/s
velocity in the direction of
body axis x
u U Velocity component in di- m/s
rection of x axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 U, u
Symbol Name

u UFL layers) Velocity fluctuations m/s
in boundary layer
u UX, U Surge velocity, linear veloc- m/s
ity along body x axis
u U m/s
body axis x
u7φ UJFI jets) Local tangential veloc- m/s
ity at station 7
(uncertainty) Combined var- Combined variance associ-
uc2 ( y ) 1
iance ated with output estimate y
(uncertainty) Combined Positive square root of
uc(y) 1
standard uncertainty uc2 ( y )
Relative combined standard
uc(y)/|y| uncertainty of output esti-
mate y
(uncertainty) Combined
From Type A evaluations
ucA(y) standard uncertainty from 1
alone
Type A
(uncertainty) Combined
From Type B evaluations
ucB(y) standard uncertainty from 1
alone
Type B
Combined standard uncer-
tainty of output estimate yi
(uncertainty) Combined when two or more measur-
uc(yi) 1
standard uncertainty ands or output quantities are
determined in the same
measurement
(basic quantity) Any vector
ui, vi U(I), V(I)
quantities
(basic quantity) Scalar prod-
ui vi UVPS uivi
uct
(basic quantity) Diadic prod-
ui vj UVPD(I,J) uivj
uct
(basic quantity) Vector prod-
u×v UVPV(I) εijkujvk
uct
(uncertainty) Component of 2
u
1 i
2
( y) ui ( y ) ≡ [ci u ( xi )]2 1
combined variance
(uncertainty) Component
1ui(y) of combined standard un- ui ( y ) ≡ ci u ( xi ) 1
certainty
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 U, u
Symbol Name

layers) Root mean square
us UFLS m/s
value of velocity fluctua-
tions
Associated with input esti-
2 (uncertainty) Estimated
u (xi) mate xi that estimates input 1
variance
quantity Xi
(uncertainty) Standard de- Positive square root of
u(xi) 1
viation u2(xi)
(uncertainty) Estimated
u(xi,xj) 1
covariance
(uncertainty) Relative
u(xi)/|xi| 1
standard uncertainty
Estimated relative covari-
u(xi ,xj)/|xi Estimated relative covari-
ance associated with input
xj| ance
estimates xi and xj
uz , uzi UFLUCT wind) Turbulent wind fluc- m/s
tuations
uτ UTAU layers) Shear (friction) ve- (τ / ρ)1/2 m/s
locity
u UR change of components of lin- m/s2
ear velocity relative to body
axes
u UXRT, UR Surge acceleration, linear ac- du / dt m/s2
celeration along body x-axis
u+ UPLUS U / uτ 1
layers)
u×v UVPV(I) and space related) Vector εijkujvk
product
u* USHEAR C101/2 U10 or 0.71U101.23 m/s
wind) Wind shear velocity
Estimated relative variance
[u(xi)/|xi|]2 Estimated relative variance associated with input esti-
mate xi
Relative combined vari-
Relative combined vari-
[uc(y)/|y|]2 ance associated with out-
ance
put estimate y
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 V, v
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, flow fields,

V VA sailing vessels) Velocity of a V = vivi1/2 m/s
body
(ships, basic quantities) Vol-
V VO m3
ume
(ships, hull geometry) Dis-
V DISPVOL Δ / (ρ g) = ∇BH + ∇AP m3
placement volume
(ships, hull resistance, ma-
noeuvrability, sailing ves-
V V sels) Linear velocity of m/s
origin in body axis, Speed of
the model or the ship
V motions capsizing) Tank to- m³
tal capacity
V0 V0, OMN 2πn rad/s
Rotational velocity
and space related) Zeroth
order moments of a vector
V0i V0(I),V(I) quantity distributed in space, ∫dvi
referred to an orthogonal
system of Cartesian coordi-
nates fixed in the body
(ships, manoeuvrability) Ap-
V0 V0 m/s
proach speed
V0 V0 m/s
Velocity of undisturbed flow
motions capsizing) Speed of
V0 craft in the turn - m/s
IMO/HSC'2000
Service speed - IMO/IS
(ships, basic quantities) Lin-
V1 V, V1 ear or translatory velocity of ds / dt m/s
a body
and space related) First or-
V1i V1(I) ∫εijkxjdvk
der moments of a vector dis-
tribution
(ships, manoeuvrability) Ap-
VA VA m/s
proach speed
(ships, performance, propul- Equivalent propeller open
VA VA sor performance) Advance water speed based on thrust m/s
speed of propeller or torque identity
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 V, v
Symbol Name
Mean velocity over bottom
VBM VBM vessels) Mean bottom veloc- m/s
of the hull
ity
VF VF m/s
Flow or current velocity
VI VI m/s
faces) Induced velocity
Vi V(I) forces) Velocity field of the i = 1, 2, 3 m/s
wake
and space related) Zeroth
order moments of a vector
Vi V0(I),V(I) quantity distributed in space, ∫dvi
referred to an orthogonal
system of Cartesian coordi-
nates fixed in the body
(ships, hull resistance) Speed
VK VKN
in knots
VL VOLS WL / w m3
Volume loss
(sailing vessels) Velocity
Vmc VMC m/s
made good on course
(sailing vessels) Velocity
Vmg VMG made good to windward m/s
(contrary to wind direction)
mance) Mean axial velocity
VP VP m/s
at propeller plane of ducted
propeller
Design ship speed when the
𝑉𝑉ref VREF ship is in operation in a calm m/s
sea condition (no wind and
waves)
VS VS mance) Section advance (VA2+ (0.7 R ω)2)1/2 m/s
speed at 0.7 R
Relative velocity between
VSP VSP hull and spray in direction of m/s
vessels) Spray velocity
the spray
Taking vortex induced ve-
VT VT faces) Resultant velocity of m/s
locities into account
flow approaching a hydrofoil
(sailing vessels) True wind
Vtw VWABS m/s
velocity
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 V, v
Symbol Name
Vu V(URT) m/s
Generalized velocity
V u V(URT) m/s2
Generalized acceleration
Vi = V0i
Vu V(U) and space related)
V3+i = V1i
Generalized vector
Design ship speed when the
𝑉𝑉w VW m/s
ship is in operation under the
representative sea condition
(ships, hull resistance, ma-
noeuvrability, environmental
mechanics, wind, sailing
VWR VWREL m/s
vessels)
Relative wind velocity, ap-
parent wind velocity
(ships, manoeuvrability, en-
VWT VWABS vironmental mechanics, m/s
wind) True wind velocity
v UY, V Sway velocity, linear veloc- m/s
ity along body y-axis
v V m/s
body axis y
v motions capsizing) Tank to- m³
tal capacity
v V Velocity component in di- m/s
rection of y axis
P, OMX,
v01 body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
V0(1), V(4)
Q, OMY,
V0(2), V(5)
locity around body axis y
R, OMZ,
V0(3), V(6)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 V, v
Symbol Name

U, VX, body motions) Translatory
v11 m/s
V1(1), V(1) velocity in the direction of
body axis x
V, VY, body motions) Translatory
v12 m/s
body axis y
W, VZ, body motions) Translatory
v13 m/s
body axis z
U, VX, body motions) Translatory
v1 m/s
body axis x
v1 VX, V1 Velocity component in di- m/s
rection of x, y, z axes
v2 V1(2), V(2) m/s
body axis y
v2 VY, V2 Velocity component in di- m/s
v3 V1(3), V(3) m/s
body axis z
v3 VZ, V3 m/s
Velocity component in di-
v4 V0(1), V(4) body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
Q, OMY,
v5 body motions) Rotational rad/s
V0(2), V(5)
R, OMZ,
V0(3), V(6)
(environmental mechanics, Volume of gas pores per unit
vA POAI 1
ice) Relative volume of air volume of ice
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 V, v
Symbol Name
(environmental mechanics, Volume of liquid phase per

vB POBR 1
ice) Relative volume of brine unit volume of ice
v0 POIC v0 = vA + vB 1
ice) Total porosity of ice
vi V(I) m/s
Velocity
body motions) Components vi = v1i m/s
vu V(U)
of generalized velocity or v3+i = v0i rad/s
motion relative to body axes
vy VY, V2 Velocity component in di- m/s
vW motions capsizing) Wind m/s
speed used in calculation
vx VX, m/s
body axis x
V, VY, body motions) Translatory
vy m/s
body axis y
W, VZ, body motions) Translatory
vz m/s
body axis z
u×v UVPV(I) and space related) Vector εijkujvk
product
v VR change of components of lin- m/s2
ear velocity relative to body
axes
v UYRT, VR Sway acceleration, linear ac- dv / dt m/s2
celeration along body y-axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 W, w
Symbol Name

W WT Weight (force), gravity force N
acting on a body
W SHIPWT mg N
tude motions capsizing) Ship
weight
We WN V2 L / κ 1
rameter) Weber number
(hydrofoil boats) Weight of
WF WTF N
foil
Weight of material eroded
WL WTLS from a specimen during a N/s
Weight loss
specified time
(ships, basic quantities, fluid
mechanics, flow parameter)
w WD dW / dV = ρg N/m3
Weight density, formerly
specific weight
w WPUL loads) Weight per unit dW / dx1 N/m
length
w W m/s
body axis z
w W Velocity component in direc- m/s
tion of z axis
(ships, performance) Taylor
w WFT (V - VA) / V 1
wake fraction in general
w UZ, W Heave velocity, linear veloc- m/s
ity along body z-axis
w VZ, V3 Velocity component in di- m/s
w1 jets) Geometric intake width m
at station 1
jets) Width of capture area
w1A m
measured over hull surface
at station 1A
(ships, performance) Froude
wF WFF (V - VA) / VA 1
wake fraction
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 W, w
Symbol Name
(ships, ship performance) Propeller speed VA deter-

wQ WFTQ 1
Torque wake fraction mined from torque identity
𝑤𝑤R Effect of the rudder(s) on the 1
wake fraction
(ships, performance) Thrust Propeller speed, VA, deter-
wT WFTT 1
wake fraction mined from thrust identity
body motions, ships, ma-
w UZRT, WR noeuvrability) Heave accel- dw / dt m/s2
eration, linear acceleration
along body z-axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name

X quency domain quantity)
Real "valued" function
X X loads) Force in direction of N
body axis x
X X forces) Cylindrical coordi- m
nates
forward, r distance meas-
ured from the x-axis
keeping) Surge force on
X FX N
body, force along body x-
axis
(sailing vessels) Compo-
X nents of resultant force N
along designated axis
X1 motions capsizing) Roll 1
damping coefficients
X2 motions capsizing) Roll 1
damping coefficients
XCB XCB tude motions capsizing) m
of buoyancy, B such as
Longitudinal centre of buoy-
XMCF from Midships
ancy (LCB)
XCF XCF tude motions capsizing) m
of flotation, F such as XMCF
Longitudinal centre of flota-
from Midships
tion (LCF)
Longitudinal distance from a
XCG XCG tude motions capsizing) m
of gravity, G such as XMCG
Longitudinal centre of grav-
from Midships
ity (LCG)
XF FDIM gF/U192
wind) Dimensionless Fetch
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name
(ACV and SES) Horizontal

XH XH needs clarification m
XR XRU keeping) Longitudinal rud- N
der force
(ACV and SES) Distance of
leading skirt contact point
XS XS needs clarification m
out-board or outer hinge of
attachment point to structure
ith input quantity on which
measurand Y depends
th
Xi i input quantity NOTE Xi may be the phys-
ical quantity or the random
variable
kth independent repeated ob-
Xi,k
servation of Xi
keeping) Derivative of surge
Xu XU ∂X / ∂u Ns/m
force with respect to surge
velocity
keeping) Derivative of surge
X u XURT
force with respect to surge
∂X / ∂ u Ns2/m
acceleration
Estimate of the value of in-
put quantity Xi equal to the
Estimate of the value of in-
arithmetic mean or average
put quantity Xi
of n independent repeated
observation Xi,k of Xi
Right-hand orthogonal sys-
and space related) Body
x X tem of coordinates fixed in m
axes and corresponding Car-
the body
tesian coordinates
x X, Y stochastic) Stationary sto- x(ζ,t), y(ζ,t)
chastic process
x x quency domain quantity) x(t)
Values of real quantities
(ships, performance) Load
x XLO η P /P -1 1
fraction in power prediction D D E
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name

x X forces) Cylindrical coordi- m
nates
from the x-axis
Origin O coinciding with the
centre of the propeller. The
(ships, unsteady propeller longitudinal x-axis coincides
x X forces) Cartesian coordi- with the shaft axis, positive m
nates forward; the trans-verse y-
axis, positive to port; the
third, z-axis, positive upward
x X, Y x(ζ), y(ζ)
Random quantities
and space related) Space
x0 X0 tem of coordinates fixed in m
relation to the space
tesian coordinates
x01 X0(1) tem of coordinates fixed in m
tesian coordinates
tesian coordinates
tesian coordinates
x090 X090 turning circles) Advance at m
90° change of heading
x0180 X0180 turning circles) Advance at m
x0F X0F m
stopping man.) Head reach
x0max XMX turning circles) Maximum m
advance
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name
x1 X(1) tem of coordinates fixed in m
the body
tesian coordinates
the body
tesian coordinates
the body
tesian coordinates
xA XA quency domain quantity) XA(t) = X(t) + iXH(t)
Analytic function
1/n Σ xi , i = 1...n
unbiased random estimate of
Average or sample mean of
xA XMS the expectation with
a random quantity
xAE = xE
xVSE = xV / n
xB XBDR dh / D
Boss to diameter ratio
(ships, hydrostatics, sea- Longitudinal distance from
keeping, large amplitude reference point to the centre
xCB XACB motions capsizing) of the added buoyant layer, m
Longitudinal centre of float- b such as xMCb from Mid-
ation of added buoyant layer ships
(ships, hydrostatics, sea- Longitudinal distance from
keeping, large amplitude reference point to the centre
xCF XACF motions capsizing) of flotation of the added m
Longitudinal centre of flota- buoyant layer, f such as xMCf
tion of added buoyant layer from Midships
(ships, hydrostatics, stabil- Longitudinal distance from
ity, seakeeping, large ampli- reference to the centre of
xCG XACG tude motions capsizing) gravity, g, of an added or re- m
Longitudinal centre of grav- moved weight (mass) such
ity of added weight (mass) as xMCg from Midships
xD XDR Standard deviation of a ran- xVR ½
dom quantity
motions capsizing) Distance
xD m
of down flooding opening
from end of boat
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name

XDF(f) = Σxjexp(-i2πfjTS)
i.e. periodically repeating=
xDF XDF Fourier transform of ampled
X(0)/2 + fSΣXF(f + jfS)
function
sample theorem: aliasing!
xDL XDL XDL(s) = Σxjexp(-sjTS)
Laurent transform
Sampled function
xDR XDR Standard deviation of a ran- xVR ½
dom quantity
(fundamental, statistical) xVS ½,
DS
x XDS Sample deviation of a ran- unbiased random estimate of
dom quantity the standard deviation
xE XMR Expectation or population E(x)
mean of a random quantity
and space related) Flow
xF XF tem of coordinates fixed in m
relation to the flow
tesian coordinates
XF(f) = ∫X(t)exp(-i2πft)dt
(fundamental, time and fre- inverse form:
xF XFT quency domain quantity) = ∫XF(f)exp(-i2πft)dt
Fourier transform if X(t) = 0 and a = 0 then
XF(f)=XL(f)
xF1 XF(1) tem of coordinates fixed in m
tesian coordinates
tesian coordinates
tesian coordinates
1/TC∫X(t)exp(-i2πjt/TC)dt
t = 0 . . TC
xFj XFT(J) XF = ΣxFjδ(f - j/TC)
Fourier transform of peri-
inverse form:
odic function
X(t) = ΣxFjexp(-i2πfjTC)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name

xH
XHT quency domain quantity) XH(t) = 1/π ∫X(τ)/(t - τ)dτ
Hilbert transform
quency domain quantity) XHF(f) = XF(f)(-i sgn f)
xHF XHF
Fourier transform of Hilbert (1/t)F = -i sgn f
transform
i = 1... n
xi X(I), Y(I) Samples of random quanti-
n : sample size
ties
(ships, seakeeping) Absolute
i = 1, 2, 3 :surge, sway, and
xi X(I) displacement of the ship at m
heave respectively
the reference point
Estimate of input quantity Xi
NOTE when xi is deter-
mined from the arithmetic
mean or average of n inde-
pendent repeated observa-
xi Estimate of input quantity Xi tion xi = X i

xj X(J) x(tj) = ∫x(t)δ(t - tj)dt
Variables for samples values
of real quantities
(fundamental, time and fre- XL(s) = ∫X(t)exp(-st)dt
L
x XLT quency domain quantity) La- if X(t<0) = 0 then
place transform = (X(t)exp(-at))F
xM XMR Expectation or population E(x)
(fundamental, statistical) m-
(xm)E XmMR th moment of a random (xm)E
quantity
xMR XMR Expectation or population E(x)
1/n Σ xi , i = 1...n
(fundamental, statistical) unbiased random estimate of
xMS XMS Average or sample mean of the expectation with
a random quantity xAE = xE
xVSE = xV / n
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name
PD
x XPD Probability density of a ran- d Fx / dx
dom quantity
xPF XPF Probability function (distri- 1
bution) of a random quantity
(ships, propulsor geometry) Distance of propeller centre
xP XP Longitudinal propeller posi- forward of the after perpen- m
tion dicular
xR XRT quency domain quantity) XR(r) = Σxjr-j=XDL
Laurent transform
xR XRU Longitudinal position of rud- m
der axis
XS(f) = XF(f)(1 + sgn f)
xS XS = XAF
Single-sided complex spec-
i.e. = 0 for f < 0
tra
quency domain quantity) XFj(1 + sgn j)
xSj XS(J)
Single-sided complex Fou- line spectra
rier series
(ships, seakeeping) General-
u = 1...6 surge, sway, heave, m
xu X(U) ized displacement of a ship
roll, pitch, yaw rad
at the reference point
xV XVR, XXVR Variance of a random quan- x2 E - xE 2
tity
xVR XVR, XXVR Variance of a random quan- x2 E - xE 2
tity
1/ (n - 1) Σ (xi - xA)2
i = 1...n
xVS XVS, XXVS Sample variance of a ran-
dom quantity
the variance xVSE = xV
stochastic) Auto-covariance
xxC XXCR (x(t) - xE)(x(t + τ) - xE)E
of a stationary stochastic
process
stochastic) Auto-covariance
xxCR XXCR (x(t) - xE)(x(t + τ) - xE)E
of a stationary stochastic
process
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name
MR
xx XXMR Auto-correlation of a ran- x xE
dom quantity
xxR XXMR Auto-correlation of a ran- x xE
dom quantity
x(t)x(t + τ)E = Rxx(τ)
(fundamental, statistical, Rxx(τ) = Rxx(-τ)
stochastic) Auto-correlation if x is ergodic:
xxRR XXRR
of a stationary stochastic Rxx(τ) = x(t)x(t + τ)MR
process Rxx(τ) = ∫ Sxx(ω)cos(ωτ)dτ
τ = 0 ... ∞
stochastic) Power spectrum
xxS XXSR xxRRSR
or autospectral power den-
sity of a stochastic process
xxVR XVR, XXVR Variance of a random quan- x2 E - xE 2
tity
1/ (n - 1) Σ (xi - xA)2
i = 1...n
xxVS XVS, XXVS Sample variance of a ran-
dom quantity
the variance xVSE = xV
stochastic) Cross-covariance
xyC XYCR (x(t) - xE)(y(t + τ) - yE)E
of two stationary stochastic
processes
stochastic) Cross-covariance
xyCR XYCR (x(t) - xE)(y(t + τ) - yE)E
of two stationary stochastic
processes
xyMR XYMR Cross-correlation of two ran- x yE
dom quantities
xyPD XYPD Joint probability density of ∂2 Fxy / (∂x ∂y)
Joint probability function
xyPF XYPF 1
(distribution) function of
xyR XYMR Cross-correlation of two ran- x yE
dom quantities
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 X, x
Symbol Name
(fundamental, statistical, x(t)y(t + τ)E = Rxy(τ)

stochastic) Cross-correlation Ryx(τ) = Rxy(-τ)
xyR XYRR
of two stationary stochastic if x, y are ergodic:
processes Rxy(τ) = x(t)y(t + τ)MR
stochastic) Cross-power
xyS XYSR xyRRSR
spectrum of two stationary
stochastic processes
xyV XYVR Variance of two random x yE - xE yE
quantities
xyVR XYVR Variance of two random x yE - xE yE
quantities
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Y, y
Symbol Name

loads, ships, manoeuvrabil-
Y FY ity, seakeeping) Sway force, N
force in direction of body
axis y
Y nents of resultant force along N
designated axis
A measurand. Estimated rel-
ative uncertainty of standard
Y
uncertainty u(xi) of inputs
estimate xi
ity, seakeeping, large ampli- Lateral distance from a refer-
YCG YCG tude motions capsizing) Lat- ence point to the centre of m
eral displacement of centre gravity, G
of gravity (YCG)
keeping) Derivative of sway
Yr YR ∂Y / ∂r Ns
force with respect to yaw ve-
locity
YR YRU keeping) Transverse rudder N
force
𝑌𝑌𝑈𝑈 YU N
mance) Pod unit side force
Y r YRRT ∂Y / ∂ r Ns2
force with respect to yaw ac-
celeration
Yv YV ∂Y / ∂v Ns/m
force with respect to sway
velocity
Y v YVRT ∂Y / ∂ v Ns2/m
force with respect to sway
acceleration
tude of frequency response za(ω) / ζa(ω) or
Yz(ω) 1
function for translatory mo- za(ω) / ηa(ω)
tions
Yδ YD ∂Y / δ N
force with respect to rudder
angle
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Y, y
Symbol Name

Θa(ω) / ζa(ω) or
Yθζ(ω) tude of frequency response 1
Θa(ω) / (ω2/ (gζa(ω)))
function for rotary motions
y X, Y stochastic) Stationary sto- x(ζ,t), y(ζ,t)
chastic process
y X, Y x(ζ), y(ζ)
Random quantities
longitudinal x-axis coincides
y Y with the shaft axis, positive m
forces) Cartesian coordinates
forward; the trans-verse y-
X, X(1) Right-hand orthogonal sys-
y Y, X(2) tem of coordinates fixed in m
Z, X(3) the body
tesian coordinates
Estimated of measurand Y or
y Result of a measurement or
Output estimate
X0, X0(1) Right-hand orthogonal sys-
y0 Y0, X0(2) tem of coordinates fixed in m
Z0, X0(3) relation to the space
tesian coordinates
y090 Y090 turning circles) Transfer at m
turning circles) Tactical di-
y0180 Y0180 m
ameter (transfer at 180°
change of heading)
y0F Y0F stopping manoeuvre) Lateral m
deviation
y0max Y0MX turning circles) Maximum m
transfer
y0max Y0MX zag manoeuvre) Maximum m
transverse deviation
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Y, y
Symbol Name

ity, seakeeping, large ampli- Lateral distance from a refer-
yCG YCG tude motions capsizing) Lat- ence point to the centre of m
eral displacement of centre gravity, G
of gravity (YCG)
yD m
from gunwale
yD' m
off centreline
yF YF tem of coordinates fixed in m
axes and corresponding
Cartesian coordinates
i = 1... n
yi Y(I) Samples of random quanti-
where n : sample size
ties
Estimate of measurand Yi
when two or more measur-
yi Estimate of measurand Yi
ands are determined in the
same measurement
Transverse distance of wing
yP YP propeller centre from middle m
Lateral propeller position
line
y+ YPLUS layers) Non-dimensional y uτ / v 1
distance from the wall
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Z, z
Symbol Name

Z Z, FZ, loads) Force in direction of Nm
body axis z
Z NPB 1
Number of propeller blades
ity) Intersection of righting
Z ZRA
arm with line of action of
the centre of buoyancy
keeping) Heave force on
Z FZ N
body, force along body z-
axis
Z nents of resultant force N
along designated axis
motions capsizing) Intersec-
Z ZRA tion of righting arm with line
of action of the centre of
buoyancy
distance from the centre of
Z A to the centre of the under- m
water lateral area or approxi-
mately to a point at one half
the draught - IMO/IS
Z m
distance from the centre of
A to the waterline
𝑍𝑍CB ZCB (Ships, Hydrostatics and Vertical distance from refer- m
Stability) ence point to the centre of
Vertical centre of buoyancy buoyancy, B
(sailing vessels) Height of
centre of effort of sails
ZCE ZCE m
above waterline in vertical
centre plane
(ACV and SES) Vertical
ZH ZH needs clarification m
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Z, z
Symbol Name
z Z tem of coordinates fixed in m
the body
tesian coordinates
z Z quency domain quantity)
Complex variable
z ZSURF wind) Height above the sea m
surface in meters
(ships, propulsor geome-
z NPB try)Number of propeller 1
blades
(ships, unsteady propeller longitudinal x-axis coincides
z Z forces) Cartesian coordi- with the shaft axis, positive m
nates forward; the trans-verse y-
z0 Z0 tem of coordinates fixed in m
relation to the space,
tesian coordinates
jets) Vertical distance of
z6 m
nozzle centre relative to un-
disturbed surface
za ZAM quency domain quantity) mod(z) = sqrt(zr2+zi2) m
Amplitude
zc ZRE quency domain quantity) zc = real(z) = zacos(zp)
Real or cosine component
motions capsizing) Height
zD m
above waterline of down
flooding opening
zF ZF tem of coordinates fixed in m
tesian coordinates
zi ZIM quency domain quantity) Im- imag(z) = zasin(zp) = zs
aginary or sine component
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Z, z
Symbol Name

j
z ZCJ quency domain quantity) zr - izi
Conjugate
zl ZLG quency domain quantity) - zp
(Phase) Lag
zp ZPH quency domain quantity) arc(z) = arctg(zi / zr)
Phase
(ships, propulsor geometry) Height of propeller centre
zP ZP m
Vertical propeller position above base line
zr ZRE quency domain quantity) real(z) = zacos(zp) = zc 1
Real or cosine component
zs ZIM quency domain quantity) Im- zs = imag(z) = zasin(zp) 1
aginary or sine component
zS ZS (zSF + zSA) / 2 m
Mean static sinkage
zSA ZSA Caused by loading m
Static sinkage at AP
zSF ZSF Caused by loading m
Static sinkage at FP
(ships, performance) Run-
zV ZV ning sinkage of model or m
ship
(ships, hull resistance) Run-
zVA ZVA m
ning sinkage at AP
(ships, hull resistance) Run-
zVF ZVF m
ning sinkage at FP
(ships, hull resistance) Mean
zVM ZVM (zVF + zVA) / 2 m
running sinkage
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Α, α
Name Explanation
Symbol Symbol Unit

α AA body motions) Angular ac- dω/dt rad/s2
celeration
The angle of the longitudinal
body axis from the projec-
tion into the principal plane
AT of symmetry of the velocity
α body motions) Angle of at- rad
ALFA of the origin of the body
tack
axes relative to the fluid,
positive in the positive sense
of rotation about the y-axis
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- Angle between the direction
AA,
α faces) Angle of attack or in- of undisturbed relative flow rad
ALFA
cidence and the chord line
(fluid mechanics, cavitation) Actual amount of solved and
α GC ppm
Gas content undissolved gas in a liquid
(ships, manoeuvrability) Angle of attack in pitch on
α AAPI rad
Pitch angle the hull
Angle between propeller
𝛼𝛼 AA Angle of inclination of the deg
shaft and horizontal
propeller shaft
AAZL (fluid mechanics, lifting sur- Angle of attack or incidence
α0 rad
ALF0 faces) Angle of zero lift at zero lift
Angle between projected
keel and stagnation line in a
αB ALFSL vessels) Angle of stagnation rad
plane normal to centre plane
line
and parallel to reference line
(planing, semi-displacement Angle between barrel axis
αBAR ALFBAR rad
vessels) Barrel flow angle and assumed flow lines
(hydrofoil boats) Geometric
αc ALFTW rad
angle of twist
Angle between nose-tail line
αD AD of duct profile and propeller rad
Duct profile-shaft axis angle
shaft
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- The angle of attack relative
AAEF, faces) to the chord line including
αEFF rad
ALFE Effective angle of attack or the effect of induced veloci-
incidence ties
αFB ANFB rad
Bow fin angle
αFS ANFS rad
Stern fin angle
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Α, α
Name Explanation
Symbol Symbol Unit
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- The angle of attack relative

AAGE, faces) to the chord line neglecting
αG rad
ALFG Geometric angle of attack or the effect of induced veloci-
incidence ties
AAHY, In relation to the position at
αH faces) Hydrodynamic angle rad
ALFI zero lift
of attack
For thin airfoil or hydrofoil,
angle of attack for which the
streamlines are tangent to
AAID, (fluid mechanics, lifting sur-
αI the mean line at the leading rad
ALFS faces) Ideal angle of attack
edge. This condition is usu-
ally referred to as "shock-
free" entry or "smooth"
(hydrofoil boats) Downwash
αIND ALFIND rad
or induced angle
(hydrofoil boats) Angle of
αM ALFM attack of mean lift coeffi- rad
cient for foils with twist
(fluid mechanics, cavitation) Maximum amount of gas
αS GS Gas content of saturated liq- solved in a liquid at a given ppm
uid temperature
as GR α / αS 1
Gas content ratio
(hydrofoil boats) Angle of
αs AFS attack for which flow sepa- rad
ration (stall) occurs
(hydrofoil boats) Incidence
αTO ATO rad
angle at take-off speed
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Β, β
Symbol Name
The angle to the principal

plane of symmetry from the
(solid body mechanics, rigid velocity vector of the origin
DR
β body motions) of the body axes relative to rad
BET
Angle of drift or side-slip the fluid, positive in the
positive sense of rotation
about the z-axis
β BETE layers) δ* / (τw dp / dx) 1
Equilibrium parameter
Angle between a straight
line approximating body
vessels)
β BETD section and the intersection rad
Deadrise angle of planing
between basis plane and
bottom
section plane
Ship appendage resistance
(ships, performance) Ap-
β APSF divided by model append- 1
pendage scale effect factor
age resistance
(ships, manoeuvrability) Angle of attack in yaw on
β AADR rad
Drift angle the hull
β BETB mance) Advance angle of a arctg (VA / R ω) rad
propeller blade section
βC DRCI turning circles) Drift angle rad
at steady turning
(ships, propulsor geometry) Angle between inner duct
βD BD rad
Diffuser angle of duct tail line and propeller shaft
(ships, propulsor, perfor-
mance) Hydrodynamic flow Flow angle taking into ac-
βI BETI rad
angle of a propeller blade count induced velocity
section
(sailing vessels) leeway an-
βL BETAL rad
gle
βM BETM vessels) Deadrise angle at rad
midship section
βT BETT vessels) Dead rise angle at rad
transom
wind, sailing vessels) appar-
βWA BETWA rad
ent wind angle (relative to
boat course)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Β, β
Symbol Name
βWR ANWIRL Angle of attack of relative rad
wind
wind, sailing vessels) True
βWT BETWT rad
wind angle (relative to ves-
sel course)
β* BETS mance) Effective advance arctg (VA/ (0.7 R ω)) rad
angle
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Γ, γ
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, flow fields) ∫V ds

Γ CC m2/s
Circulation along a closed line
(fluid mechanics, flow fields) Strength per length or per
Γ VD m/s
Vortex density area of vortex distribution
(fluid mechanics, flow fields) Γ / (π D V)
Γn CN 1
Normalized circulation π is frequently omitted
(ships, basic quantities) Rel-
Mass density of a substance
ative mass or weight, in
γ MR divided by mass density of 1
English speaking called spe-
distilled water at 4°C
cific gravity
The angular displacement
about the x0 axis of the prin-
RO cipal plane of symmetry
γ body motions) Projected an- rad
GAMR from the vertical, positive in
gle of roll or heel
the positive sense of rotation
about the xo axis
γ ANSW rad
faces) Sweep angle
(ships, propulsor perfor- The portion of the resistance
γi mance) Resistance fraction (load fraction, γi) that the ith 1
for one propeller propeller is responsible for
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Δ, δ
Symbol Name

Δ DISPF gρ∇ N
tude motions capsizing) Dis-
placement (buoyant) force
ΔAPP DISPFAP placement force (buoyancy) g ρ ∇AP N
of appendages
ΔBH DISPFBH placement force (buoyancy) g ρ ∇BH N
of bare hull
ΔCF DELCF 1
Roughness allowance
(sailing vessels) Displace-
ΔC DFCAN ment force (weight) of ca- N
noe body
ΔK DFK N
ment force (weight) of keel
ΔM DMF Change of momentum flux N
∆M x jets) Change in Momentum N
Flux in x direction
statics, stability, seakeeping,
Δm DISPM large amplitude motions ρ∇ kg
capsizing) Displacement
mass
𝛥𝛥𝛥𝛥𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤 DRWA N
Added waves resistance
𝛥𝛥𝛥𝛥𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤𝑤 DRWI N
Added wind resistance
ΔR DFR ment force (weight) of rud- N
der
ΔU UDEF layers) Velocity defect in (Ue- U) / uτ 1
boundary layer
(ships, performance) Ship-
Δw DELW model correlation factor for wT,M - wT,S 1
wake fraction
(ships, performance) Ship-
model correlation factor
ΔwC DELWC with respect to wT,S method 1
formula of ITTC 1978
method
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Δ, δ
Symbol Name

δ DELTT faces) Thickness ratio of foil t/c 1
section (general)
(ships, propulsor perfor- n D / VA
δ ADCT mance) with n in revs/min, D in 1
Taylor's advance coefficient feet, VA in kn
δ D Prefix to other symbol 1
ity) Finite increment in...
δ tude motions capsizing) 1
Tank block coefficient
(ships, manoeuvrability) An-
δ ANCS gle of a control surface, rud- rad
der angle, helm angle
δ ANRU rad
Rudder angle, helm angle
δ0 ANRU0 rad
Neutral rudder angle
δ1 DELS layers) Displacement thick- ∫(Ue- U) / Ue dy m
ness of boundary layer
layers) Thickness of a
δ995 DEL m
boundary layer at
U=0.995Ue
(ACV and SES) Increase in
δBC DBCV cushion breadth due to water m
contact
δFB ANFB rad
Bow fin angle
δB DELTB faces) Thickness ratio of tB / cS 1
trailing edge of struts
Maximum height of a fully-
developed cavity, normal to
δC HC the surface and the m
Cavity height or thickness
stream-wise direction of the
cavity
+1 : ij = 11, 22, 33
δij DEL(I,J) and space related)
0 : if otherwise
Delta operator
(ships, manoeuvrability) Ef-
δEFF ANRUEF rad
fective rudder inflow angle
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Δ, δ
Symbol Name

δF DELTF faces) Camber ratio of mean f / c 1
line (general)
Angle between the planing
δF DELFS surface of a flap and the bot- rad
Flap angle (general)
tom before the leading edge
δFB ANFB Bow fin angle rad
δFL DLTFL faces) rad
Angle of flap deflection
δFR ANFR rad
Flanking rudder angle
(ships, appendage geometry) Initial angle set up during
δFRin ANFRIN Assembly angle of flanking the assembly as zero angle rad
rudders of flanking rudders
δFS ANFS rad
Stern fin angle
(environmental mechanics, Vertical elevation of ice sur-
δI ELIC m
ice) Deflection of ice sheet face
δL DELTL faces) Camber ratio of lower fL / c 1
side of foil
(special craft, geometry and Effective increase in friction
δλ DLAM levers) Dimensionless in- area length-beam ratio due 1
crease in total friction area to spray contribution to drag
δmax ANRUMX zag manoeuvre) Maximum rad
value of rudder angle
δR ANRU manoeuvrability) rad
Rudder angle
δRO ANRUOR rad
Rudder angle, ordered
δRF ANRF rad
Rudder-flap angle
δS DELTS faces) Thickness ratio of tS / cS 1
strut
δSTH DELTT faces) Theoretical thickness tS / cSTH 1
ratio of section
δs ANSL rad
faces) Slat deflection angle
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Δ, δ
Symbol Name

δtKL DTR m
Change in static trim
δU DELTU faces) Camber ratio of upper fu / c 1
side
(ships, unsteady propeller u = 1,.., 6 M
δu DP(U) forces) Generalized vibra- u = 1, 2, 3: linear m
tory displacement u = 4, 5, 6: angular rad
Angle between the planing
(ships, appendage geometry) surface of a wedge and the
δW DELWG rad
Wedge angle bottom before the leading
edge
(planing, semi-displacement Effective increase in friction
δλ DLAM vessels) Dimensionless in- area length-beam ratio due 1
crease in total friction area to spray contribution to drag
δ* DELS layers) Displacement thick- ∫(Ue- U) / Ue dy m
ness of boundary layer
δ** ENTH ∫(U / Ue) (1 - U2 / Ue2)dy m
layers) Energy thickness
(ships, unsteady propeller u = 1,.., 6 m/s
δ u DPVL(U) forces) Generalized vibra- u = 1, 2, 3: linear m/s
tory velocity u = 4, 5, 6: angular rad/s
(ships, unsteady propeller u = 1,.., 6 m/s2
δ u DPAC(U) forces) Generalized vibra- u = 1, 2, 3: linear m/s2
tory acceleration u = 4, 5, 6: angular rad/s2
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ε, ε
Symbol Name

ε EPSLD L/D 1
surfaces) Lift-Drag ratio
ε EPSG Resistance-displacement R/Δ 1
ratio in general
Propeller axis angle Angle between reference
ε PSIBP rad
measured to body fixed line and propeller shaft axis
coordinates
(hydrofoil boats)
εF EPSLDF L/D 1
Lift/ Drag ratio of foil
Phases of harmonic
εi EWPH(I) components of a periodic ηFSp rad
wave
(fundamental. coordinate +1 : ijk = 123, 231, 312
εijk EPS(I,J,K) and space related) - 1 : ijk = 321, 213, 132
Epsilon operator 0 : if otherwise
εI STIC Elongation per unit length 1
ice) Ice strain
εR EPSR Residuary resistance- RR / Δ 1
displacement ratio
Angle between shaft line and
εSH EPSSH reference line (positive, shaft rad
vessels) Shaft angle
inclined downwards)
εWL EPSWL L /L 1
vessels) Wetted length factor M WL
vessels, ACV and SES)
εWS EPSWS S / S0, SSHC / SSH0 1
Wetted surface area factor,
wetted surface factor
ε I STRTIC ∂ε / ∂τ 1/s
ice) Ice strain rate
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ζ, ζ
Symbol Name
ζ stochastic) Outcome of a
random "experiment"
(environmental mechanics, z-axis positive vertical
ζ DW waves) Instantaneous wave down, zero at mean water m
depression level
(ships, hull resistance, E3 − E1
ζ 13 ZETA13 water jets) Inlet duct loss 1
2 ρU 0
1 2
coefficient:
(ships, hull resistance, water E7 − E5
ζ 57 ZETA57 jets) Nozzle duct loss 2 1
coefficient:
1
2 ρ u e6
(environmental mechanics, Radius of orbital motion of a
ζA WAMP m
waves) Wave amplitude surface wave particle
(ACV and SES) Height of
cushion generated wave
ζC ZETAC m
above mean water plane at
leading edge side of the skirt
ζ ij jets) Energy loss coefficient 1
between station i and j
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Η, η
Symbol Name
(ships, hull resistance, envi-

ronmental mechanics,
z-axis positive vertical up,
η EW waves) m
zero at mean water level;
Instantaneous wave eleva-
tion at a given location
(ships, basic quantities) Ef-
η EF, ETA Ratio of powers
ficiency
η0 ηPηductηI 1
jets) Free stream efficiency:
(ships, performance) Ap-
ηAPP ETAAP PEw0APP / PEwAPP, RTBH / RT 1
pendage efficiency
waves) Amplitudes of har-
ηai EWAM(I) ηFSa m
monic components of a peri-
odic wave
ETAB, (ships, performance) Propel-
ηB PT / PD = T VA / (Q ω) 1
EFTP ler efficiency behind ship
waves) Maximum of eleva-
ηC EC m
tions of wave crests in a rec-
ord
(ships, performance, hull re-
ETAD, sistance, water jets) Propul-
ηD PE / PD = PR / PP 1
EFRP sive efficiency or quasi-pro-
pulsive coefficient
(ships, performance) Propul-
𝜂𝜂Did ETADID sive efficiency in ideal con- 1
dition, from model test
(ships, hull resistance, water PJSE
ηduct 1
jets) Ducting efficiency: PPE
(ships, hull resistance, water PJSE0
ηeI jets) Energy interaction effi- 1
PJSE
ciency:
(ships, performance, basic
ETAG,
ηG quantities) Gearing effi- 1
EFGP
ciency
ETAH, (ships, performance) PE / PT = PR / PT
ηH 1
EFRT Hull efficiency = (1 - t) / (1 - w)
Efficiency in non-viscous
ηI EFID mance) Ideal propeller effi- 1
fluid
ciency
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Η, η
Symbol Name

jets) Ideal efficiency, equiv- PTE0
ηI 1
alent to jet efficiency in free PJSE0
stream conditions
(ice going vessels) Propul-
ηID EFDIC RIT V / (2 π nIA QIA) 1
sive efficiency in ice
(ice going vessels) Relative
ηICE ERIC ηID / ηD 1
propulsive efficiency in ice
(ships, hull resistance, wa- ηeI
ηINT ter jets) Total interaction ef- (1 − t ) 1
ηmI
ficiency:
ter jets) Installation effi-
ηinst ETAIN ciency to account for the 1
distorted flow delivered by
the jet intake to the pump
(ships, hull resistance, water PTE
η jet jets) Momentum or jet effi- 1
PJSE
ciency:
ηJP EFJP mance) Propeller pump or PJ / PD = PJ / PP 1
hydraulic efficiency
mance)
ZET0,
ηJP0 Propeller pump efficiency at T / (ρ π / 2)1/3 / (PD D)2/3 1
EFJP0
zero advance speed, alias
static thrust coefficient
(ships, hull resistance, water PJSE
ηJS 1
jets) Jet system efficiency: PD
Mechanical efficiency of
ηM ETAM transmission between engine PD / PB 1
and propeller
(ships, hull resistance, water Tnet0
ηmI jets) Momentum interaction 1
Tnet
efficiency:
PT / PD = T VA / (Q ω) all
ETAO, mance, performance) Pro-
ηO quantities measured in open 1
EFTPO peller efficiency in open wa-
water tests
ter
(ships, performance)
ηP ETAP Propulsive efficiency coeffi- PE / PB 1
cient
(ships, hull resistance, water PPE
ηP ETAP 1
jets) Pump efficiency PD
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Η, η
Symbol Name

ηP0 jets) Pump efficiency from a 1
pump loop test
waves) Phases of harmonic
ηpi , εi EWPH(I) ηFSp rad
components of a periodic
wave
ETAR, (ships, performance) Rela-
ηR ηB / η0 1
EFR0 tive rotative efficiency
ETAS, (ships, performance)
ηS PD / PS = PP / PS 1
EFPS Shafting efficiency
ηT ET waves) Negative values! m
Wave trough depression
ηT ET waves) Elevations of wave Negative values! m
troughs in a record
ηTJ EFTJ mance) Propeller jet effi- 2 / (1 + (1 + CTh)1/2) 1
ciency
(ships, propulsor perfor- PT / PD = T VA / (Q ω) all
ETA0,
ηTP0 mance) Propeller efficiency quantities measured in open 1
EFTP0
in open water water tests
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Θ, θ
Symbol Name

Θ THETA ∫(U / Ue) (1 - U / Ue)dy m
layers) Momentum thickness
X(5), TR, Positive in the positive sense
θ body motions) Angle of rad
TETP of rotation about the y-axis
pitch or trim
θ CWD waves) Component wave di- rad
rection
θ PI rad
Pitch angle
θ RAKA rad
Angle of rake
Angle between ship design
(planing, semi-displacement waterline and actual water
θ0 TRIMS rad
vessels) Static trim angle line at rest (positive bow up)
tan-1((zSF - zSA) / L)
(ACV and SES) Bag contact
θB TETB rad
deformation angle
motions capsizing) Capsiz-
θC rad
ing angle under the action of
a gust of wind IMO/IS
(ships, hull resistance, plan- Angle between actual water
ing, semi-displacement ves- line at rest and running water
θD TRIMV rad
sels) Running (dynamic) line (positive bow up)
trim angle tan-1((zVF - zVA) / L)
(hydrofoil boats) Dihedral
θDH DIHED rad
angle
(planing, semi-displacement Angle between design water-
θDWL TRIMDWL vessels) Running trim angle line and running waterline rad
based on design waterline (positive bow up)
The difference between
θEXT TEMX maximum and minimum lo- rad
Skew angle extent
cal skew angle
(ACV and SES) Finger outer
θF TETF rad
face angle
θf HEELANGF motions capsizing) Heel an- rad
gle at flooding
MWD
θm waves) Mean or dominant rad
THETAMOX
wave direction
θn rad
jets) Jet angle relative to the
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Θ, θ
Symbol Name
horizontal at the nozzle (sta-

tion 6)
Angle between ship design
ity, planing, semi-displace-
waterline and actual water
θS TRIMS ment vessels, seakeeping, rad
line at rest (positive bow up)
large amplitude motions
tan-1((zSF - zSA) / L)
capsizing) Static trim angle
The angular displacement
about the shaft axis of the
reference point of any blade
(ships, propulsor geometry) section relative to the gener-
θs TETS rad
Skew angle ator line measured in the
plane of rotation. It is posi-
tive when opposite to the di-
rection of ahead rotation
(ships, hull resistance, plan- Angle between actual water
ing, semi-displacement ves- line at rest and running water
θV TRIMV rad
sels) Running (dynamic) line (positive bow up)
trim angle tan-1((zVF - zVA) / L)
(ACV and SES) Slope of
mean water plane for surface
θW TETW rad
level beneath cushion pe-
riphery
θW TETWI rad
wind) Wind direction
θ* ENTH ∫(U / Ue) (1 - U2 / Ue2)dy m
layers) Energy thickness
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ι, ι
Symbol Name
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Κ, κ
Symbol Name

K K 0.41 1
layers) von Karman constant
κ CK rameter) Kinematic capillar- σ / ρ m3/s2
ity
κ WN 2 π / LW = ω2/g 1/m
waves) Wave number
κS KS mance) Roughness height of m
propeller blade surface
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Λ, λ
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, lifting sur- 2

Λ AS b /A 1
faces) Aspect ratio
Λ PRGR layers) Pressure gradient pa- δ995 / (v dUe / dx) 1
rameter
wE wE wE
Lz = Lq = Lf =
wZ wq wj
wE wE wE
Lz = Lq = Lf =
Λ Tuning factor wZ wq wj 1
or
TZ Tq Tj
LZ = Lq = Lf =
TE TE TE
ΛFR ASRF 1
Flanking rudder aspect ratio
ΛR ASRU manoeuvrability) Rudder as- b2 / A, bR2 / AR, bR2 / ART 1
pect ratio
λ TA ct / cr 1
faces) Taper ratio
Ship dimension divided by
(ships, basic quantities,
corresponding model dimen-
ships, hull geometry) Scale
λ SC sion 1
ratio, Linear scale of ship
λ = LS / LM = BS / BM
model
= TS / TM
λ ADR mance) Advance ratio of a VA / (n D) / π = J / π 1
propeller
tween adjacent down cross-
λd LD waves) Wave length by zero m
ing in the direction of ad-
down-crossing
vance
λFR TAFR 1
Flanking rudder taper
λR TARU cR / cT 1
Rudder taper
(environmental mechanics, The horizontal distance be-
λu LU waves) Wave length by zero tween adjacent up crossing m
up-crossing in the direction of advance
λW LW tween adjacent wave crests m
waves) Wave length
in the direction of advance
λW LAMS vessels) Mean wetted length- LM / (BLCG) 1
breadth ratio
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Μ, μ
Symbol Name

μ VI kg/ms
rameter) Viscosity
μ CWD waves) Component wave di- rad
rection
(ships, hydrostatics, stabil- The ratio of the volume of
ity, seakeeping, large ampli- flooding water in a compart-
μ PMVO 1
tude motions capsizing) Vol- ment to the total volume of
umetric permeability the compartment
Angle between ship positive
x axis and positive direction
μ of waves (long crested) or rad
encounter angle
dominant wave direction
(short crested)
μI POIIC 1
ice) Poisson's ratio of ice
Expectation or mean of the
Expectation or mean of the
µp probability distribution of
probability distribution
random-varying quantity q
μx XMR Expectation or population E(x)
The angle between the direc-
µ WD Wave direction tion of a component wave rad
and the x0 axis
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ν, ν
Symbol Name

v VK rameter) Kinematic viscos- μ / ρ m2/s
ity
Degrees of freedom (gen-
ν
eral)
Effective degrees of freedom
of uc(y) used to obtain tp(νeff)
νeff Effective degrees of freedom
for calculating expanded un-
certainty Up
Degrees of freedom, or ef-
(rigid body motion) Degrees fective degrees of freedom
νi
of freedom of standard uncertainty u(xi)
of input estimate xi
(rigid body motion) Rota-
v01 , v4 V0(1), V(4) tional velocity around body rad/s
axis x
axis y
axis z
(rigid body motion) Transla-
v11 , v1 V1(1), V(1) tory velocity in the direction m/s
of body axis x
v , vy , V, VY,
tory velocity in the direction m/s
v12 , v2 V1(2), V(2)
of body axis y
vz VZ,
tory velocity in the direction m/s
v13 , v3 V1(3), V(3)
of body axis z
vi V(I) Any vector quantities
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ξ, ξ
Symbol Name

𝜉𝜉𝑛𝑛 Load variation coefficient of 1
the shaft revolution speed
𝜉𝜉𝑃𝑃 Load variation coefficient of 1
the delivered power
𝜉𝜉𝑉𝑉 Load variation coefficient of 1
the ship speed
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ο, ο
Symbol Name
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Π, π
Symbol Name
π PI Circular constant 3.1415926535 1

ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ρ, ρ
Symbol Name

rameter, ships, basic quanti-
ties, seakeeping, large am-
ρ DN, RHO dm / dV kg/m3
plitude motions capsizing,
hull resistance, water jets)
Mass density of fluid
(ships, basic quantities, sail-
ing vessels) water density for
ρ0 RHO0 kg/m3
reference water temperature
and salt content
(Ships, basic quantities, ACV
and SES, seakeeping, large
ρA DNA, RHOA Mass of air per unit volume kg/m3
amplitude motions capsiz-
ing) Mass density of air
ρI DNIC Mass of ice per unit volume kg/m3
ice) Mass density of ice
(environmental mechanics, Mass of snow per unit vol-
ρSN DNSN kg/m3
ice) Mass density of snow ume
ρW DNWA kg/m3
ice) Mass density of water
ρΔ DNWI ρΔ = ρW - ρI kg/m3
ice) Density difference
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Σ, σ
Symbol Name
(fluid mechanics, flow Surface tension per unit

σ CA kg/s2
parameter) Capillarity length
σ CNPC (pA - pC) / q 1
Cavitation number
σ SN, SIGS Pa
Normal stress
σ FC waves) Circular wave 2 π fW = 2 π / T W rad/s
frequency
Standard deviation of a
Standard deviation of a probability distribution,
σ probability distribution equal to the positive square
root of σ2
σCI SCIC ice) Compressive strength of Pa
ice
σFI SFIC Pa
ice) Flexural strength of ice
σI CNPI 1
Inception cavitation number
σTI SNIC Pa
ice) Tensile strength of ice
σV CNPV (pA - pV) / q 1
Vapour cavitation number
σx XDR Standard deviation of a xVR ½
random quantity
(environmental mechanics, S(f,θ)=S(f)DX(f,θ) where
2π
DIRSF
σθ
∫ D ( f ,θ )dθ
waves) Directional spreading rad
SIGMAOX X =1
function 0
Standard deviation of q ,
σ q () Standard deviation of q equal to the positive root of
σ2 q ()
Standard deviation of
experimental standard
()
σ  s q  deviation ()
s q of q ,
equal to the positive square
()
root of σ 2  s q 

ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Σ, σ
Symbol Name
Variance of a probability
distribution of (for example)
σ2 Variance of a probability
a randomly-variing quantity
q, estimated by s2(qk)
Variance of q , equal to σ 2 /
n, estimated by
s 2 ( qk )
σ2 q () Variance of q ()
s2 q =
n
Variance of experimental
()
σ 2  s q 
()
standard deviation s q of q
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Τ, τ
Symbol Name
τ TICV stochastic) Covariance or s
correlation time
(ships, basic quantities) Tan-
τ ST, TAU Pa
gential stress
mance) Ratio between pro-
τ TMR TP / TT 1
peller thrust and total thrust
of ducted propeller
(special craft, Planing and
Angle between design water-
Semi-Displacement Vessels)
τ TRIMDWL
Running trim angle based on
line and running waterline deg
(positive bow up)
design waterline
τB t0 / D 1
Blade thickness ratio
(planing, semi-displacement Angle between the reference
τDWL TAUDWL rad
vessels) Reference line angle line and the design waterline
(ships, propulsor perfor- 𝛥𝛥𝛥𝛥
τi mance) Thrust deduction 𝜏𝜏𝑖𝑖 = 1 + � � 1
sensitivity for one propeller 𝛥𝛥𝛥𝛥 i
(planing, semi-displacement Angle between the reference
τR TAUR vessels) Angle of attack rela- line and the running water- rad
tive to the reference line line
τSI STIC Pa
ice) Shear strength of ice
(ships, hull resistance, fluid
mechanics, flow fields) Local
τW LSF, TAUW μ (∂U / ∂y)y=0 Pa
skin friction, Wall shear
stress
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Υ, υ
Symbol Name
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Φ, φ
Symbol Name

φ HEELANG motions capsizing) Heel an- rad
gle
X(4), RO, Positive in the positive sense
φ body motions) Angle of roll, rad
PHIR of rotation about the x-axis
heel or list
φ HEELANG rad
ity) Heel angle
φ RO rad
Roll angle
φ0 motions capsizing) Heel an- rad
gle during offset load tests
φ0(PMT) rad
mum permitted heel angle
during …
φ0(REQ) rad
mum permitted heel angle
during …
φD rad
down flooding angle accord-
ing to …
φD(REQ) motions capsizing) Required rad
down flooding angle, see…
motions capsizing) Down
φDC rad
flooding angle to non-quick
draining cockpits
motions capsizing) Down
φDH rad
flooding angle to any main
access hatchway
(ships, hydrostatics, stability
φF HEELANGF rad
motions capsizing) Heel an-
gle at flooding
motions capsizing) Angle of
φGZMAX rad
heel at which maximum
righting moment occurs
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Φ, φ
Symbol Name
Heel angle corresponding to

φm the maximum of the statical rad
stability curve
φR motions capsizing) Assumed rad
roll angle in a seaway
φVS HEELANGV ity) Heel angle for vanishing rad
stability
φW motions capsizing) Heel an- rad
gle due to calculation wind
φ PHIP Pitch angle of screw propel- arctg (P / (2 π R)) rad
ler
φ PO m2/s
Potential function
φF PHIF Pitch angle of screw propel- rad
ler measured to the face line
Angle between stagnation
φSP PHISP line and keel (measured in rad
vessels) Spray angle
plane of bottom)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Χ, χ
Symbol Name
χ YX Yaw angle rad

ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ψ, ψ
Name

X(6), YA, body motions, ships, ma- Positive in the positive sense
ψ rad
PSIY noeuvrability) Angle of yaw, of rotation about the z-axis
heading or course
ψ = const
ψ SF is the equation of a stream m3/s
Stream function
surface
ΨO YAOR rad
Original course
ψ01 PSI01 zag man..) First overshoot rad
angle
(ships, manoeuvrability, Zig-
ψ02 PSI02 zag man..) Second overshoot rad
angle
Angle between horizontal
Propeller axis angle meas-
ψaP PSIAP plane and propeller shaft rad
ured to space fixed coordi-
axis
nates
Propeller axis angle meas- Angle between reference
ψbP PSIBP rad
ured to body fixed coordi- line and propeller shaft axis
nates
ψC COCU rad
Course of current velocity
ψS PSIS zag man..) Switching value rad
of course angle
(ships, manoeuvrability) Ab-
ψWA COWIAB rad
solute wind direction
ψWR COWIRL rad
Relative wind direction
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Ω, ω
Symbol Name
(ships, basic quantities) Cir-

ω FC, OMF 2πf 1/s
cular frequency
(ships, basic quantities) Ro-
ω V0, OMN 2πn rad/s
tational velocity
ω V0P mance) Propeller rotational 2πn 1/s
velocity
ωE FE waves) Circular wave fre- 2 π fE = 2 π / T E rad/s
quency of encounter
ωW FC waves) Circular wave fre- 2 π fW = 2 π / T W rad/s
quency
P, OMX,
ωx body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
V0(1), V(4)
Q, OMY,
ωy body motions) Rotational rad/s
V0(2), V(5)
R, OMZ,
ωz body motions) Rotational ve- rad/s
V0(3), V(6)
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 ∇
Symbol Name

∇ DISPVOL statics, stability,) Displace- Δ / (ρ g) = ∇BH + ∇AP m3
ment volume
∇APP DISPVAP placement volume of ap- ΔAP / (ρ g) m3
pendages
∇BH DISPVBH placement volume of bare ΔBH / (ρ g) m3
hull
(sailing vessels) Displaced
∇C DVCAN m3
volume of canoe body
(hydrofoil boats) Foil dis-
∇F DISVF m3
placement volume
∇fw DISVOLFW ity) Displacement volume of Δfw / (ρg) m3
flooded water
∇K DVK m3
volume of keel
∇R DVR m3
volume of rudder
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Identifiers (Subscripts)
Symbol Name

0
ity) Initial
A
ity) attained
a
ity) apparent
(ships, hull geometry) After
AB
body
(ships, hull geometry) After
AP
perpendicular
(ships, hull geometry) Ap-
APP
pendages
att
ity) attained
(ships, hull geometry) Bare
BH
hull
BK
Bilge keel
BS
Bossing
D
Duct
d
ity) dynamic
DW
sign waterline
dyn
ity) dynamic
e
ity) effective
eff
ity) effective
EN (ships, hull geometry) Entry
f
ity) false
(ships, hull geometry) Fore
FB
body
FB
Bow foil
(ships, hull geometry) Fore
FP
perpendicular
FR
Flanking rudder
(ships, hull geometry) Frame
FS
spacing
ITTC Symbols
Symbol Name

FS
Stern foil
(ships, hull resistance) Fresh
FW
water
HE (ships, hull geometry) Hull
KL
Keel
KL
ity) keel line
L
ity) longitudinal
(ships, hull geometry) Refer-
LR
ence Line
(ships, hull geometry) Based
LP
on LPP
(ships, hull geometry) Based
LW
on LWL
M (General) Model
MAX
ity) maximum
MF
Faired model data
(ships, hull resistance) Raw
MR
model data
(ships, hull geometry) Mid-
MS
ship
MTL ity) longitudinal trimming
moment
(ships, hull resistance) Open
OW
water
P
propeller shaft axis
(ships, hull geometry) Paral-
PB
lel body
PMT
ity) Permitted
R
ity) required (to be clarified)
req
ity) required (to be clarified)
RF
Rudder flap
RU (ships, hull geometry) Run
RU
Rudder
ITTC Symbols
Symbol Name
S (General) Ship
S
ity) Sinkage, squat
s
ity) Static
sqt
ity) Sinkage, squat
SA
Stabilizer
SF
Faired full scale data
SH
Shafting
SK
Skeg
(ships, hull resistance) Raw
SR
full scale data
(ships, hull geometry) Sta-
SS
tion spacing
ST
Strut
(ships, hull resistance) Salt
SW
water
T
ity) transverse
TC
ity) Trim in cm
TM
ity) Trim in m
TH
Thruster
V
ity) vertical
WG
Wedge
(ships, hull geometry)Water
WP
plane
(ships, hull geometry) Wet-
WS
ted surface
φ
ity) at heel angle φ
θ
ity) at trim angle θ
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Operators (Superscripts)
Symbol Name
A stochastic) Average, sample
mean
CR stochastic) Population co-
variance
CS stochastic) Sample covari-
ance
D stochastic) Population devia-
tion
DR stochastic) Population devia-
tion
DS
stochastic) Sample deviation
E, M, MR stochastic) Expectation, pop-
ulation mean
M stochastic) Expectation, pop-
ulation mean
MR stochastic) Expectation, pop-
ulation mean
MS stochastic) Average, sample
mean
PD stochastic) Probability den-
sity
PF stochastic) Probability func-
tion
S stochastic) (Power) Spec-
trum
SS
stochastic) Sample spectrum
R stochastic) Population corre-
lation
ITTC Symbols
Version 2021 Operators (Superscripts)
Name
RR stochastic) Population corre-
lation
RS stochastic) Sample correla-
tion
V stochastic) Population vari-
ance
VR stochastic) Population vari-
ance
VS
stochastic) Sample variance

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ITTC Symbols

ITTC Symbols and Terminology List

Supersedes all previous versions

Updated by the 29th ITTC Quality Systems Group

NOTE: bold letters are used to denote vectors

(seakeeping, large ampli-

(seakeeping, large ampli-

Wetted Surface Area of Bot-

(sailing vessels) Area of

(ships, basic quantities) Lin-

(ships, basic quantities, hull

(sailing vessels) Breadth,

(ships, hydrostatics, stabil-

(fundamental, statistical, sto-

(ships, Resistance and Pro-

(ships, Geometry and Hy-

(hydrofoil boats) Lift coef-

(ships, hull geometry) Pris- ∇F / (AX L / 2) or

Thickness Cord Ratio of

(ships, hull resistance) Quali-

(ships, hull resistance) Wave

(ships, hull resistance, water

The part of the Chord de-

(ships, basic quantities)

(ships, hull geometry sea-

(fluid mechanics, flow

(fluid mechanics, boundary

(solid body mechanics,

(sailing vessels) Heeling

(solid body mechanics,

(solid body mechanics,

(fundamental, time and fre-

(ships, hull geometry) Sec-

(seakeeping, large amplitude

(seakeeping, large amplitude Distance from the centre of

(fundamental, statistical, M(g(t)) = lim(1/T ∫g(t)dt)

(fluid mechanics, flow fields)

(fluid mechanics, cavitation)

(seakeeping, large amplitude

(fundamental, time and fre-

(solid body mechanics, iner-

(ships, propulsor perfor-

(ships, hydrostatics, stability

(ships, hydrostatics, stability,

(ships, propulsor perfor-

(uncertainty) Coverage fac- For calculation of expanded

Reference length of ship

(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of prismatic part of

(multi-hull vessels) Length Length of nose section of

(hydrofoil boats) Horizontal

(ships, basic quantities) Mo- First order moment of a

(ships, seakeeping) Wave

jets) Momentum flux at sta- ∫∫ ρ ui ( u j n j ) dA

(ships, unsteady propeller

(solid body mechanics, iner-

(ships, basic quantities) Fre- Alias RPS (RPM in some

(ships, manoeuvrability, sea-

(seakeeping, large amplitude

(ships, basic quantities)

(ships, hull resistance, wa-

(fluid mechanics, flow fields)

Q Q (ships, performance) Torque PD / ω Nm

(ships, manoeuvrability, sea-