What is "naval architecture"

Architecture \Ar"chi*tec`ture\ (?; 135), n. [L. architectura, fr. architectus: cf. F. architecture. See Architect.] 1. The art or science of building; especially, the art of building houses, churches, bridges, and other structures, for the purposes of civil life; -- often called civil architecture.

Many other architectures besides Gothic.
--Ruskin.

3. Construction, in a more general sense; frame or structure; workmanship.

The architecture of grasses, plants, and trees.
--Tyndall.

The formation of the first earth being a piece of divine architecture.
--Burnet.

Military architecture, the art of fortifications.

Naval architecture, the art of building ships. [1913 Webster] ||

Naval architecture also known as naval engineering, is an engineering discipline dealing with the engineering design process, shipbuilding, maintenance, and operation of marine vessels and structures. Naval architecture involves basic and applied research, design, development, design evaluation and calculations during all stages of the life of a marine vehicle. Preliminary design of the vessel, its detailed design, construction, trials, operation and maintenance, launching and dry-docking are the main activities involved. Ship design calculations are also required for ships being modified (by means of conversion, rebuilding, modernization, or repair). Naval architecture also involves formulation of safety regulations and damage control rules and the approval and certification of ship designs to meet statutory and non-statutory requirements.