Hawser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hawser
[ˈhɔːzər ]
Definitions
nautical term
A hawser is a thick rope or cable used for mooring or towing a ship.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hawser |
Hawser is used primarily in nautical settings for very thick ropes or cables used to tow or moor ships.
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| rope |
Rope is a general-term for a thick and strong cord made of twisted fibers or strands, used in many different situations.
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| cable |
Cable is often used in various settings such as nautical, construction, and communications. It refers to a thick and strong rope made of wire or fibers.
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| line |
Line refers to thinner ropes used in a variety of contexts, often in nautical settings for sailing or fishing.
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Examples of usage
- The sailors secured the ship to the dock with a hawser.
- The hawser snapped under the strain of the heavy load.
figurative
In a figurative sense, a hawser can refer to something that provides strong support or guidance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hawser |
Use in contexts involving maritime or heavy-duty contexts where strong ropes or cables are mentioned.
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| support |
Refers to help or encouragement given in various contexts, such as emotional, financial, or structural assistance.
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| guidance |
Used when talking about advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or achieving a goal. It can be applied in educational, professional, or personal contexts.
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| anchor |
Commonly used in maritime settings to describe a heavy device dropped into the water to keep a vessel in place. Also used metaphorically to describe something that provides stability or security.
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Examples of usage
- His friendship was the hawser that kept her afloat during tough times.
- The hawser of tradition held the family together through generations.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Marine Engineering
- Hawsers are usually made from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, providing strength and durability against harsh marine conditions.
- These ropes can be up to several inches thick and are designed to withstand massive forces when mooring or towing vessels.
- Many modern hawsers are also designed with specific stretch characteristics to absorb shock loads when enforcing strain between two boats.
History of Maritime Practices
- Throughout history, sailors have relied on strong ropes—initially made from natural fibers like hemp and later evolved to modern materials for enhanced performance.
- In ancient times, hawsers were critical in shipbuilding, particularly to secure hulls while being constructed and during launching.
- The use of hawsers has evolved alongside significant milestones in navigation and shipping technology, reflecting advancements in maritime practices.
Pop Culture
- Hawsers often feature in pirate films and adventure stories, where they are depicted as essential tools for high-seas escapades.
- In literature, the imagery of a hawser might symbolize connections or ties, not just between boats but also between people or experiences.
- Certain maritime festivals and events highlight traditional knot-tying techniques, showcasing the importance of hawsers in seafaring culture.
Physics and Mechanics
- The tensile strength of a hawser is a crucial factor in its design, determined by the materials used and the intended applications.
- Hawsers employ principles of mechanics related to tension and load distribution, making them studied objects in physics.
- Different types of knots and splices are utilized with hawsers to maximize their effectiveness in different scenarios, such as mooring or towing.
Origin of 'hawser'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'haussier', which means 'to raise'. It refers to its function of raising or securing vessels.
- In maritime terminology, the term has been used since the late 14th century, showing its long-standing importance in shipping.
- Variations of the term can be found in different languages, highlighting the global importance of seafaring.
The word 'hawser' originated in the early 17th century from the Dutch word 'hauwser' which means a cable or rope used in the rigging of a ship. It has been an essential term in nautical vocabulary for centuries, symbolizing strength and security in maritime operations.
See also: hawsers.