Sailor Speak of the Week – Pass

Definition

Verb

1. To throw or hand out a line.
2. To run a line through a block or fairlead, or around a capstan, winch, or bitts.
3. To “pass the word.”

Origin

(First definition) 15th century. (Second definition) 13th century. (Third definition) 15th century. From the Old French word, passer, via Middle English, meaning to pass.

Comments

The word is said to have originated on board ships.

References

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