snatch block

noun

, Nautical.

1. a fairlead having the form of a block that can be opened to receive the bight of a rope at any point along its length.

snatch block

noun

1. nautical a block that can be opened so that a rope can be inserted from the side, without threading it through from the end

Word History and Origins

Origin of snatch block¹

First recorded in 1615–25

Word History and Origins

Origin of snatch block¹

C17: so called because the rope can be inserted quickly: figuratively, the block snatches it. See snatch