Ratlin: meaning, definitions and examples

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ratlin

 

[หˆratlษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

nautical term

A ratlin is a small rope or line used in nautical applications, typically used to support the shrouds or stays of a ship's mast. These lines are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the rigging on sailing vessels.

Synonyms

rigging line, shroud line.

Examples of usage

  • The sailor adjusted the ratlin to secure the mast more firmly.
  • Ratlins are essential for keeping the sails taut during a storm.
  • He expertly tied a knot in the ratlin to prevent it from slipping.
  • Without properly installed ratlins, the ship's sails would not function efficiently.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'ratlin' comes from the old nautical term 'ratline,' which originally referred to the ropes used in the rigging of sailing ships.
  • It is derived from the Middle English word 'ratlin,' which relates to the nautical vocabulary that developed in the 13th century.
  • The term is linked to the Old Norse word 'ratta,' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to tighten,' reflecting its function in securing parts of the ship.

Naval History

  • In the age of sail, ratlins were essential for supporting sailors who climbed the rigging to adjust sails during storms.
  • The number and quality of ratlins on a ship could determine how well it handled in rough waters.
  • Ships built before the 19th century often had ratlining made from natural fibers, such as hemp or cotton, before the advent of synthetic materials.

Cultural References

  • The usage of ratlins is often referenced in maritime literature and songs, symbolizing the rigors and dangers of life at sea.
  • Movies and stories about piracy and exploration frequently depict sailors climbing the rigging, showcasing the importance of ratlins.
  • In modern nautical culture, the term is still relevant among sailing enthusiasts and in maritime education.

Technological Development

  • Advancements in material science have led to the development of stronger synthetic ropes, which are now often used instead of traditional ratlins.
  • Modern sailing vessels might use automated systems that reduce the reliance on ratlins for maintaining sail stability.
  • Despite technology's advancements, traditional rigging techniques and the terminology associated with ratlins continue to be taught in sailing schools.

Linguistic Notes

  • Similar words can be found in various languages, like 'rattlin' in Scots, reflecting regional adaptations of nautical terms.
  • The word has influenced other terms in maritime jargon, contributing to the rich tapestry of nautical vocabulary.
  • In poetry and songs, ratlins can serve as a metaphor for support structures in both physical and emotional contexts.

Translations

Translations of the word "ratlin" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฐเฅˆเคŸเคฒเคฟเคจ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั€ะฐั‚ะปั–ะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒฉใƒˆใƒชใƒณ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋žซ๋ฆฐ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฑุงุชู„ูŠู†

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆ‹‰็‰นๆž—

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ั€ะฐั‚ะปะธะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ แƒแƒขแƒšแƒ˜แƒœแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ratlin

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ ratlin