[hull] n [ME, fr. OE hulu; akin to OHG hala hull, OE helan to conceal--more at hell] (bef. 12c) 1 a: the outer covering of a fruit or seed b: the persistent calyx or involucre that subtends some fruits
2. a: the frame or body of a ship or boat exclusive of masts, yards, sails, and rigging b: the main body of a usu. large or heavy craft or vehicle (as an airship or tank)
3: covering, casing -- hull-less adj
[2]hull vt (14c): to remove the hulls of: shuck -- hull.er n