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Halyard: meaning, definitions and examples

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halyard

 

[ ˈhæl.jərd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

nautical equipment

A halyard is a rope or line used on a sailboat to raise and lower sails or other equipment. It operates by securing the sail to a line that is hoisted or lowered using a winch or by hand. Halyards are crucial in managing the performance of a sailing vessel.

Synonyms

line, rope, tackle

Examples of usage

  • We need to haul the mainsail halyard.
  • He adjusted the halyard to catch more wind.
  • The crew worked together to lower the halyard.
  • She tangled the halyard while preparing the sails.
  • Properly securing the halyard is essential for safety.

Translations

Translations of the word "halyard" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bandeira

🇮🇳 हैलियर्ड

🇩🇪 Halyard

🇮🇩 halyard

🇺🇦 гальярд

🇵🇱 halyard

🇯🇵 ハリヤード

🇫🇷 halyard

🇪🇸 halyard

🇹🇷 halyard

🇰🇷 할리아드

🇸🇦 حبل الرفع

🇨🇿 halyard

🇸🇰 halyard

🇨🇳 扬帆索

🇸🇮 halyard

🇮🇸 halyard

🇰🇿 гальярд

🇬🇪 ჰალიარდი

🇦🇿 halyard

🇲🇽 halyard

Word origin

The word 'halyard' originates from the Middle English term 'halyerd', which is derived from the Old English 'halian', meaning 'to haul', and 'gear', which refers to equipment or tackle. The usage of the term has evolved over centuries, primarily in maritime language. In the context of sailing, halyards have been essential for raising sails since ancient seafaring cultures, highlighting the need to control sails as ships became larger and more complex. This word reflects the technological advancements in nautical operations, showcasing how language evolves alongside human activity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,528, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.