riding-light

A small riding-light glows on the anchored ship's bow.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A navigation light displayed by a vessel at anchor: A "riding-light" is a light, typically white, that a ship shows at night when it is anchored, to indicate its position to other vessels.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The captain ordered the crew to hoist the riding-light as the ship dropped anchor in the harbor. (The navigation light was raised to show the vessel's anchored status.)
  • A small riding-light was the only thing visible on the dark water, marking the position of the fishing boat. (The anchored boat's light served as a warning to other ships.)

Advanced Usage

• "riding-light" is a specific maritime term, often used in nautical contexts or literature about seafaring.
  • In stormy weather, a riding-light must be kept burning brightly to prevent collisions. (The light's function is crucial for safety at anchor.)

Variants and Related Words

• Riding-lamp (n): an alternative spelling or synonym for "riding-light."

  • The old sailing manual described how to trim the riding-lamp for maximum visibility. (The lamp was used for the same purpose as a riding-light.)

• Anchor light (n): a more common modern term for the same device.

  • The anchor light, also called a riding-light, is required by maritime regulations. (Both terms refer to the same navigation light.)

Synonyms

• Anchor light: the standard term for a light displayed by a vessel at anchor.

  • The ship displayed its anchor light throughout the night. (Synonymous with riding-light in modern usage.)

• Mooring light: a light used when a vessel is moored, though less specific to anchoring.

  • The mooring light was similar in function to a riding-light. (Both serve to indicate the vessel's stationary position.)

Related Idioms

• "Show a riding-light": to display a signal of one's position or intentions, often used metaphorically.

  • In the negotiation, he decided to show a riding-light by stating his terms clearly. (He made his position known, like a ship showing its anchor light.)

• "Under riding-light": a phrase indicating a vessel is at anchor and displaying the required light.

  • The fleet lay under riding-light, waiting for dawn. (All ships were anchored with their lights on.)