Towline: meaning, definitions and examples
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towline
[ ˈtoʊlaɪn ]
nautical term
A towline is a rope or cable used for towing a vessel. It serves as a connection between the towing vessel and the object being towed, ensuring that the towed object can be moved along with the towing vessel. Towlines can vary in length and strength, depending on the size and type of vessel being towed. They are critical in maritime operations, including salvage missions, shipping, and recreational boating.
Synonyms
tow rope, towing line.
Examples of usage
- The fishing boat used a towline to bring in the stranded yacht.
- During the storm, the towline snapped, causing panic among the crew.
- The rescue team prepared the towline before approaching the sunken vessel.
Translations
Translations of the word "towline" in other languages:
🇵🇹 linha de reboque
🇮🇳 टॉवलाइन
🇩🇪 Schleppleine
🇮🇩 garis penarik
🇺🇦 буксирна лінія
🇵🇱 linia holownicza
🇯🇵 トウライン
🇫🇷 ligne de remorque
🇪🇸 línea de remolque
🇹🇷 çekme hattı
🇰🇷 견인선
🇸🇦 خط السحب
🇨🇿 tažná linka
🇸🇰 ťahová línia
🇨🇳 拖曳线
🇸🇮 vlečna linija
🇮🇸 toga línu
🇰🇿 тарту жолағы
🇬🇪 ჩაყვანის ხაზი
🇦🇿 çəkmə xətti
🇲🇽 línea de remolque
Etymology
The term 'towline' is derived from the combination of 'tow,' which comes from the Old English word 'towan,' meaning 'to pull' or 'to drag,' and 'line,' which refers to a length of cord or rope. The usage of towlines can be traced back to the early maritime traditions, where vessels relied heavily on rope and cable to manage the towing and pulling of boats. Over the centuries, as maritime technologies evolved, so did the materials and methods used for constructing towlines, shifting from natural fibers to modern synthetic materials for increased durability and strength. Maritime laws and regulations have also been influenced by the proper use of towlines to ensure safety at sea.