Definition

A Coast Guardsman from USCGC Resolute fires a messenger line from a line-throwing gun attachment across to USCGC Dependable.

Noun

  • A light line bent to a heavier one, such as a mooring line or fuel line.

Origin

Mid 18th century. Most likely earlier. From the Old French word messagier, meaning forerunner.

Comments

A messenger line is much easier to handle than a heavy line. Once attached (bent) to the heavier line, the messenger line can be hauled in to work the heavy line. A messenger is also a line passed through a capstan and through blocks to provide motive force for weighing anchor.

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.