Definition

Noun: - A light displayed by a ship at anchor: A "riding light" is a specific light, typically white, shown on a ship or boat that is anchored or moored at night. Its purpose is to signal to other vessels that the ship is stationary and not underway, thereby preventing collisions.

Usage

• The "riding light" is a mandatory safety signal governed by international maritime regulations (COLREGs).
• It is displayed in a position where it can be best seen from all directions around the vessel.
• The term is synonymous with "anchor light."

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "To show a riding light": To display the anchor light as required by law.
  • All vessels over 7 meters must show a riding light when anchored outside a designated anchorage.

Variants and Related Words

• Anchor light (n): The more common modern term for a riding light. They are used interchangeably.
• Mooring light (n): A similar light used when a vessel is moored to a pier or buoy, often with the same characteristics as a riding light.

Synonyms

• Anchor light
• Anchor lantern

Related Phrases

• At riding light: A phrase describing the state of displaying the light.
  • The schooner was clearly at riding light, indicating it was settled for the night.

Noun

1. a light in the rigging of a ship that is riding at anchor