brace
4
9.9
A rope used on old ships to move and hold a yard
- noun
- /breɪs/
- Archaic
:
cabo de verga
- As the captain ordered, the sailors prepared the brace to ensure the sails were steady.
Examples
-
We just found a split in the main brace, Captain.
-
He shouted to the sailors to adjust the brace so the sails would catch the wind properly.
-
Haul on the main brace!
-
-Man the lee board braces!
-
-Slack windward brace and sheet!
-
-Splice the main-brace, Mr. Morgan.
-
Set tight all tacks and braces.
-
Heave up the braces
-
The crew used the brace to secure the yard in position during the storm.
Synonyms
9.9
A rope that holds or controls the top part of a ship's mast
is used to swing yards and secure their position not to control masts
Compounds
back brace
- Specialized
3
3.9
A device you wear around your back to support it and help you sit or stand straight
Surface Forms
Etymology
Brace on a ship is a rope that moves a yard and helps turn the sail, acting like an arm to change the sail's position. Because the rope supports and controls the yard, sailors call it a brace for its steadying role.