Definition

Noun

  1. The overhangs of a ship.
  2. The slope from the vertical of the masts, funnels, and other tophamper of a ship.

Verb

  1. To fire a broadside at the bow or stern of a vessel.

Origin

(1) Probably earlier than the 17th century. Likely from the Middle English word, ragen, of the same meaning. (2) Probably the Old English word, racian, meaning to take direction.

Comments

The rake of the masts was usually, but not always, aft to increase speed.

During the age of sail, warships had their guns arranged to fire on a broadside only. By raking a vessel, the shot could penetrate the bow and stern which is the weakest point of the ship and offers the most destructive path for shot. See also: Crossing the T.

References

Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

King, D., Hattendorf, J.B, & Estes, J.W. (1997). A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O’Brian’s Seafaring Tales (2nd Ed.). Owl Books.

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.