Whip

To bind the strands at the end of a rope with a tight wrapping of twine to prevent unravelling.

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Related W-terms

Wake

The disturbed water and trailing waves left behind a moving vessel.

Working sheet

The leeward sheet carrying load — the one actually trimming the sail at that moment.

Windward side

The side of the boat facing the wind.

Wing-and-wing

A downwind configuration in which the mainsail is set on one side and the headsail (often …

Winch

A drum with a handle (manual) or motor (electric/hydraulic) that provides mechanical advan…

Working sails

The mainsail plus the standard (working) jib — the boat's all-round sail wardrobe for mode…

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