soleplate

noun6

1. •
   A sole (timber).
2. •
   The flat metal plate forming the underside of an iron (for ironing laundry).

   • For example, a nonstick soleplate or a control for a burst of steam adds about $2 to an iron's retail price. — 1973
3. •
   The base timber in the framing for a wall, to which the studs or posts are attached and on which they rest.

   • For a longer wall, secure the soleplate in three places: at least 4 inches and at most 12 inches from each end and in the middle. Using a 1⁄2-inch drill bit, drill through the soleplate. — 2012
4. •
   Any baseplate on which machinery rests, especially one to which things are bolted.

   • The various parts of the engine are secured to a casting called the soleplate, which rests on the engine foundation and is securely bolted thereto. — 1907
5. •
   A flat surface on which the sole of the foot rests.

   • One binding, the Besser soleplate binding, has developed a system that actually can improve skiing performance under the stress of hard skiing. — 1973
6. •
   The back wall of a bucket on a water wheel (which is omitted in certain designs).

   • Poncelet's water-wheel has buckets of a curvilinear form, open at the back, without a soleplate, to secure ventilation. — 1888