Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of secure loop knot: A "bowline" is a specific knot that creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope. It is renowned for its reliability, as it is designed not to slip (become loose) or jam (become too tight to untie easily) under load.

Usage

• The "bowline" is primarily used to create a secure, non-slipping loop. It is a fundamental knot in sailing, climbing, camping, and rescue operations.
• It is often used to tie a rope around an object or to create a fixed loop for a person to sit in (e.g., a boatswain's chair or rescue harness).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailor tied a bowline to secure the boat to the dock cleat.
  • In rock climbing, a bowline can be used to tie into the harness, though other knots are now more common for this purpose.
  • He formed a bowline in the end of the rope to create a stable loop for hoisting the bucket.

Advanced Usage

• "Bowline on a bight": A variation of the bowline knot that creates two fixed loops from the middle of a rope, instead of one loop at the end.

  • The rescuer used a bowline on a bight to create two secure loops for lifting the injured person.

• "Running bowline": A knot that forms a sliding noose or lasso, created by tying a bowline around the standing part of its own rope.

  • The cowboy threw a running bowline to catch the stray calf.

Variants and Related Words

• Bowline knot: The full term for the knot, often used interchangeably with "bowline."
• Bowline bend: A method of joining two ropes using a bowline-like structure (though other bends are generally more secure).

Synonyms

• Fixed loop knot: A general term for any knot that creates a stationary loop.
• Rescue loop: A descriptive term highlighting one of its common uses.

Related Phrases

• "Tie a bowline": The standard instruction for creating this knot.

  • The first lesson was to learn how to tie a bowline with your eyes closed.

• "Bowline's reliability": A phrase referring to the knot's trusted, non-slipping quality.

  • The bowline's reliability makes it a favorite among sailors.

Idioms

• While there are no common idioms featuring the word "bowline," the knot itself is sometimes referenced metaphorically for security and reliability.
  • Their partnership was as secure as a bowline. (This is a figurative, not a standard, idiom.)

Noun

1. a loop knot that neither slips nor jams