Rigging: meaning, definitions and examples

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rigging

[ˈrɪɡɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sailing

The ropes, chains, and pulleys used on a boat to control the sails and other equipment.

Synonyms

halyards, ropes, tackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rigging	Used in nautical contexts to refer specifically to the system of ropes, cables, or chains employed to support a ship's masts and to control or set the sails. The storm damaged much of the ship's rigging. They spent hours checking the rigging before setting sail.
ropes	A general term that can be used in various contexts to refer to thick, strong cords made by twisting together strands of natural or synthetic fibers. She tied the boat to the dock with a sturdy rope. They used ropes to pull the heavy cargo onto the ship.
tackle	Typically used in nautical contexts to refer to the equipment or gear used on a ship, including ropes, blocks, and other devices. Can also be used more broadly for tools or gear in different settings. The crew used the ship's tackle to hoist the heavy cargo. He organized his fishing tackle before heading out to the lake.
halyards	Specifically referring to the ropes or lines used for hoisting sails, flags, or yards on a ship. The sailor tightened the halyards to raise the mainsail. He pulled on the halyards until the flag reached the top of the mast.

Examples of usage

The sailor checked the rigging before setting sail.
She adjusted the rigging to catch the wind more efficiently.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

illegal activities

The act of manipulating or controlling something in a dishonest or illegal way.

Synonyms

cheating, fraud, manipulation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rigging	This word is often used in situations involving the alteration of results in unfair ways, such as in sports or elections. The opposition party accused the government of rigging the election results
manipulation	Manipulation involves controlling or influencing someone or something cleverly or unscrupulously. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts. The politician was accused of media manipulation to sway public opinion
cheating	Cheating is generally used to describe dishonest behavior in games, tests, relationships, or business, and has negative connotations. He was caught cheating during the final exam
fraud	Fraud typically refers to criminal deception intended for financial or personal gain. It is used in legal and business contexts. The company faced severe penalties for committing financial fraud

Examples of usage

There was evidence of election rigging in the recent elections.
The company was accused of rigging the prices to drive out competitors.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'rigging' originally referred to the system of ropes and chains used on ships to control the sails.
It comes from the Middle English word 'riggen', meaning to equip or furnish, which shows its long-standing application in preparation and setup.
In the 19th century, 'rigging' began to include contexts outside of sailing, adapting to various fields like construction and election processes.

Sailing and Maritime

In sailing, rigging is crucial for controlling a ship's sails, helping it to catch the wind effectively.
There are two main types of rigging: standing rigging, which supports the mast, and running rigging, which adjusts the sails.
Historical pirate ships had intricate rigging, enabling them to perform quick maneuvers during battles on the high seas.

Sports and Entertainment

In the context of sports, rigging can refer to manipulating the outcome of games, which is often illegal and can lead to harsh penalties.
The concept is also explored in entertainment, particularly in wrestling, where matches are scripted, yet fans still enjoy the excitement.
Television reality shows have faced accusations of rigging, where producers manipulate outcomes for better storylines.

Political and Social Implications

In politics, rigging elections can occur when votes are manipulated to favor one candidate over others, undermining democracy.
This manipulation can indicate larger issues of power dynamics and corruption in government systems.
Historical events showcase cases of rigging that have led to significant social unrest and changes in leadership.

Technology and Engineering

In modern engineering, rigging can refer to the setup of equipment necessary for lifting heavy loads safely at construction sites.
Crane rigging involves techniques and equipment used to lift large objects, showing how versatility of the word spans various industries.
The rise of digital technologies has led to new forms of 'rigging,' such as algorithms being manipulated in social media to sway public opinion.

Translations

Translations of the word "rigging" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aparelhagem

🇮🇳 रिगिंग

🇩🇪 Takelage

🇮🇩 rigging

🇺🇦 такелаж

🇵🇱 takielunek

🇯🇵 装備 (そうび)

🇫🇷 gréement

🇪🇸 aparejo

🇹🇷 donanım

🇰🇷 장비

🇸🇦 تزوير

🇨🇿 výstroj

🇸🇰 výstroj

🇨🇳 装备 (zhuāngbèi)

🇸🇮 oprema

🇮🇸 búnaður

🇰🇿 жабдықтау

🇬🇪 აღჭურვილობა

🇦🇿 təchizat

🇲🇽 aparejo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,476, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14473 immovable
14474 choral
14475 subconscious
14476 rigging
14477 irritability
14478 unsuccessfully
14479 assimilate
...