brail

brail Definition

brail (brāl)

noun

any of the small ropes attached to the leech of a sail for hauling it in

Etymology: ME < OFr braiel, a cincture, belt for trousers < braie < L braca, pl. bracae, breeches < Gaul *braca

transitive verb

to haul (in) with brails

brail Usage Examples

Object

line: The mast and sail were held in position by brailing lines which were attached to a rack at the stern of the ship.

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