In nautical terms, what does "heel" refer to?

The term "heel" in nautical language specifically refers to the angle at which a vessel tilts away from the vertical. This tilting can be caused by various factors, including wind pressure on sails, cargo distribution, and sea conditions. When a ship heels, it can impact the vessel’s stability and maneuverability, making it essential for mariners to understand and monitor this angle.

While other options may relate to aspects of a vessel’s characteristics or performance, they do not accurately define "heel." For instance, the total angle of a vessel's load distribution involves the distribution of weight rather than the actual physical tilting of the ship itself. The position of the vessel in the water pertains to its location and orientation, but it does not specifically describe the tilt. Lastly, the depth of the vessel below water refers to draft, which is concerned with how much of the vessel is submerged and does not capture the concept of tilting. Therefore, the definition concerning the angle of tilt is the most precise representation of what "heel" means in nautical terms.