fly block

noun

, Machinery, Nautical.

1. (in a Spanish burton or the like) a block, supported by a runner, through which the hauling part of the fall is rove.
2. any block that shifts with the movement of its tackle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fly block¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

The halyards should be a luff purchase, the fly-block being the double block, and the single block being hooked in the channels.

From Project Gutenberg

Reeve the end of your rope through the upper block, and make it fast to the strap of the fly-block.

From Project Gutenberg

Then make fast your hook to the bight of the rope, and reeve the other end through the fly-block for a fall.

From Project Gutenberg

Have the fly-block of the topsail halyards above the top, and rack the runner to the topmast backstay or after shroud.

From Project Gutenberg

Luck is like a fly-block and its yard: when one goes up, the other comes down.

From Project Gutenberg