clew

clew (klo̵̅o̅)

noun

a ball of thread or yarn: in Greek legend, a thread is used by Theseus as a guide out of the labyrinth
clue
Naut.
1. either of the lower corners of a square sail
2. the after lower corner of a fore-and-aft sail
3. a combination of lines by which a hammock is hung

Etymology: ME cleue < OE cliwen, akin to Du klüwen & dissimilated Ger knäuel < IE base *gel-: see claw

transitive verb

clew down (or up)

to lower (or raise) a sail by means of clew lines

Converse of object

afford: Neither will the Gospels afford a clew; for these are the record of " days of heaven upon earth.

Modifies a noun

outhaul: A nylon cleat is fitted near the inboard end to make off the clew outhaul.

Noun used with modifier

jib: From the jib clew cringle, aft to the jib sheet car, to the sheet winch.

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