Definition

1. Noun:
   • The system of ropes, chains, and tackle used to support and control the masts, sails, and yards of a sailing vessel. This is the primary and most common meaning. It refers to all the lines (ropes) and associated hardware that allow a crew to set, adjust, and stow the sails.
   • (Less commonly) The act of assembling and installing such gear on a vessel.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The rigging of the old tall ship was a complex web of lines and pulleys.
  • The sailor climbed high into the rigging to repair the torn sail.
  • Inspecting the rigging for wear and tear is an essential safety procedure.

Advanced Usage

• "To check the rigging": To inspect the ropes and cables for safety.
  • Before the storm, the captain ordered the crew to check the rigging.
• "Running rigging" vs. "Standing rigging": Specialized terms within sailing.
  • Standing rigging (e.g., shrouds, stays) is fixed and supports the masts.
  • Running rigging (e.g., halyards, sheets) is movable and used to manipulate the sails.

Variants and Related Words

• Rig (verb): To fit a ship with rigging; to assemble or set up equipment.
  • They will rig the boat with new sails before the race.
• Rig (noun): The particular arrangement of a vessel's masts and sails (e.g., a schooner rig); also used for any assembled apparatus or structure.
• Rigger (noun): A person who specializes in assembling and working with rigging, either on ships or in construction (e.g., theatrical rigging).

Synonyms

• Tackle: The equipment, especially the ropes and pulleys, used for working a ship's sails.
• Gear: A general term for equipment, sometimes used interchangeably with rigging in a nautical context.

Related Phrases

• Climb the rigging: To ascend the ropes and spars of a ship's mast.
  • As part of their training, the new recruits had to climb the rigging.
• In the rigging: Located among the ropes and spars of the mast.
  • A lookout was posted in the rigging to watch for other ships.

Noun

1. formation of masts, spars, sails, etc., on a vessel
2. gear consisting of ropes etc. supporting a ship's masts and sails