Reefing: meaning, definitions and examples
⛵
reefing
[ ˈriːfɪŋ ]
sailing term
Reefing is a term used in sailing to describe the process of reducing the area of a sail in response to strong winds. This act helps to decrease the amount of wind resistance on the sail, thus maintaining better control of the vessel and enhancing safety. It is often executed by folding or rolling the sail and securing it to the boom or mast. Reefing can be performed on various types of sails, including mainsails and headsails, and is an essential skill for sailors to ensure optimal sailing conditions.
Synonyms
diminishing sail area, reducing sails, shortening sails.
Examples of usage
- We started reefing the mainsail as the winds picked up.
- He quickly reefed the genoa to maintain control of the yacht.
- During the storm, the crew practiced reefing procedures.
- The captain instructed the team to reef the sails before dusk.
Translations
Translations of the word "reefing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 redução de vela
🇮🇳 रेफिंग
🇩🇪 Reefing
🇮🇩 reefing
🇺🇦 рефінг
🇵🇱 reefing
🇯🇵 リーフィング
🇫🇷 réduction de voile
🇪🇸 reducción de vela
🇹🇷 reefing
🇰🇷 리핑
🇸🇦 تخفيض الشراع
🇨🇿 reefing
🇸🇰 reefing
🇨🇳 帆的缩减
🇸🇮 reefing
🇮🇸 reefing
🇰🇿 рефинг
🇬🇪 რეფინგი
🇦🇿 reefing
🇲🇽 reducción de vela
Etymology
The term 'reefing' can be traced back to the early days of sailing, with roots in the Old Norse word 'rǫf,' which means a 'strip'. Originally, it referred to folding or rolling up a piece of cloth or sail, which was necessary for managing the rigging of ships as technology and maritime practices evolved. The practice became essential as ships grew larger and sails increased in size, allowing sailors to adapt to changing wind conditions more effectively. Over time, 'reefing' entered the nautical lexicon, and its usage became standardized among sailors worldwide. The introduction of modern materials and rebuilding of vessels has kept this traditional seamanship technique vital for safety and vessel performance.