Definition

Noun: A mooring line (a rope or cable) that secures the bow (the front) of a boat or ship to a fixed point on a wharf, pier, or dock.

Usage

A "headfast" is a specific type of mooring line used in nautical contexts. It is attached to the bow of a vessel and then to a bollard, cleat, or ring on the shore to prevent the vessel from moving forward or drifting away.

Examples

• The sailor threw the headfast to the dockhand to secure the bow.
• After docking, they made sure the headfast was tied securely to the bollard.
• Check the tension on the headfast; the wind is picking up.

Advanced Usage

• "To make fast the headfast": To securely tie or fasten the bow line.
  • The captain ordered the crew to make fast the headfast before the storm arrived.

Variants and Related Words

• Sternfast (noun): A mooring line that secures the stern (the rear) of a vessel.
• Breast line (noun): A mooring line that runs perpendicular from the side of a vessel to the dock, preventing lateral movement.
• Spring line (noun): A mooring line that runs diagonally from the bow or stern to the dock, preventing forward or backward movement.

Synonyms

• Bow line
• Head line
• Forward mooring line

Related Phrases

• "To cast off the headfast": To untie or release the bow line when departing.
  • We cast off the headfast and began our journey out of the harbor.

Noun

1. a mooring line that secures the bow of a boat or ship to a wharf