Definition Noun A pulley. Origin 15th century. From Old French, bloc, of the same meaning. Comments What landlubbers refer to as a pulley. i.e. A
Category: Sailor Speak of the Week
Learn the lingo of the salty sailor, pirate, and mariner.
Sailor Speak of the Week – Aye
Definition Adverb Also: Aye-Aye An affirmative meaning, “yes,” or “I understand.”. Origin In common use by the 16th century. Possibly from Old French je or
Sailor Speak of the Week – Yardarm
Definition Noun The outer portions/tips of a yard (the athwartship spars that hold square sails). The athwartship spar on naval, merchant, and recreational vessels for
Sailor Speak of the Week – Whipstaff
Definition Noun A vertical steering lever attached to the tiller of a sailing ship. Origin Unknown, but possibly from early German, wippen, meaning to move
Sailor Speak of the Week – Veer
Definition Verb To run out a line. To change course. (of the wind in the northern hemisphere) To change direction in the clockwise fashion. Origin
Sailor Speak of the Week – Trice
Definition Verb Alternatively: trise, trize, or trice up To hoist or haul in with a line. Origin 15th century from early Dutch, trijsen, of the
Fair Winds & Following Seas 