Definition

Noun: 1. A weighted line used to measure the depth of water: Specifically, a lead line is a nautical tool consisting of a line (rope) with a weight (the "lead") attached to one end. It is lowered into the water until the weight touches the bottom, allowing sailors to determine the depth.

Usage

The term "lead line" is a technical noun used primarily in maritime, nautical, and historical contexts to describe a specific measuring device. * The sailor cast the lead line to check the depth before anchoring. * Before modern sonar, navigators relied on the lead line to avoid running aground.

Advanced Usage

• "To heave the lead line" or "to cast the lead line": This is the traditional phrase for the action of throwing the weighted line into the water to take a sounding (depth measurement).
  • The captain ordered the crew to heave the lead line as they entered the shallow bay.

Variants and Related Words

• Sounding line: A direct synonym for "lead line."
• Lead (noun): In this context, refers specifically to the weighted object at the end of the line.
• Fathom (noun/verb): A unit of nautical depth equal to six feet; to measure depth with a lead line.
  • The water was five fathoms deep at that point.

Synonyms

• Sounding line
• Plumb line (in a general, non-nautical context for determining verticality or depth)

Notes on Different Meanings

• "Lead" as a verb (/liːd/): To guide or direct. This is a completely different word and is not related to the "lead" (/lɛd/) in "lead line," which is the metal.
• "Line": Has many meanings (a mark, a queue, a telephone connection). In "lead line," it specifically means a length of cord or rope.

Noun

1. (nautical) plumb line for determining depth