downhaul

[ doun-hawl ]

noun

, Nautical.

1. any of various lines for pulling down a sail or a yard, as for securing in a lowered position when not in use.

downhaul

/ ˈdaʊnˌhɔːl /

noun

1. nautical a line for hauling down a sail or for increasing the tension at its luff

Word History and Origins

Origin of downhaul¹

First recorded in 1660–70; down ¹ + haul

Example Sentences

I ran forward and had the downhaul of the flying jib all in and fast as we slipped by the boat a hundred feet to leeward.

From Project Gutenberg

Joe found the jib-halyard and cast it off the pin, and, as the canvas fluttered down, came in hand over hand on the downhaul.

From Project Gutenberg

Haul out on the downhaul, hoisting and lowering on the halyards.

From Project Gutenberg

Small sized vessels have no downhaul to the topgallant studdingsails.

From Project Gutenberg

To hoist it, let go the downhaul and royal stay, and haul on the halyards.

From Project Gutenberg