Definition

Noun: A jibboom is a spar (a strong pole) that extends forward from the bowsprit of a sailing ship. It is used to provide additional length for securing the stays (supporting ropes) of the jib sails and other forward sails.

Usage

The jibboom is a specific nautical term referring to a structural component of traditional sailing vessels. - The sailors climbed out onto the jibboom to furl the flying jib. - During the storm, the force of the waves snapped the ship's jibboom. - Extending the jibboom allows a ship to carry more forward sail area.

Advanced Usage

• Jibboom heel: The inboard end of the jibboom where it attaches to the bowsprit.
• To fish a jibboom: A repair technique where splints are bound to a broken jibboom to reinforce it.

Variants and Related Words

• Bowsprit (noun): The main spar projecting forward from a ship's bow, to which the jibboom is attached.
• Sprit (noun): A general term for a pole used as a spar on a ship.
• Flying jibboom (noun): On some large ships, a further spar extending beyond the jibboom.

Synonyms

• Spar: A general term for a stout pole used on a ship to support sails.
• Headstick: A less common, more generic term.

Notes

The jibboom is an archaic term primarily associated with 18th and 19th-century sailing ships, such as frigates and clippers. It is not used in the context of modern motorized vessels.

Noun

1. a spar that extends the bowsprit