Back

(1) To haul a sail to windward so the wind fills the wrong side, stopping the boat or driving it astern. (2) Of the wind: to shift anticlockwise.

Test your knowledge

Know your nautical terms? Play the free SkipperCheck daily maritime quiz — COLREGs, navigation, VHF radio, seamanship. Earn points, climb the global leaderboard.

Play the Daily Quiz →

Related B-terms

Bow thruster
A small transverse propeller mounted in a tunnel near the bow that pushes the bow sideways…
Bulwark
A solid raised extension of the topsides above deck level, providing a barrier against fal…
Barometer
A pressure-measuring instrument whose readings are used to monitor and predict weather tre…
Boltrope
A length of rope sewn inside the foot or luff of a sail so the sail can be slid into a gro…
Bowline
A classic knot that forms a secure, non-slipping loop and can still be untied after heavy …
Boom vang
A tackle (also called a kicking strap) running from the base of the mast to the boom, pull…
← Back to full glossary
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo