Definition

Noun: A specific type of knot, known as a sailor's breastplate, used historically to create a loop or handle in a rope for the purpose of dragging heavy objects, such as a gun carriage.

Usage

The term "sailor's breastplate" refers specifically to the knot itself. It is a technical term from historical nautical and military contexts. - The artillery team secured the rope with a sailor's breastplate before hauling the cannon into position. - Knowing how to tie a proper sailor's breastplate was an essential skill for naval gunners.

Advanced Usage

• The knot is a type of fixed loop knot, similar in function to a bowline but with a specific historical application for towing.
• It is primarily discussed in historical texts, knot-tying manuals, or contexts involving period military equipment.

Variants and Related Words

• Gunner's knot: Another name for the same or a very similar knot used for the same purpose.
• Artillery loop: A descriptive term for the loop created by this knot.

Synonyms

• Loop knot
• Towing knot
• Fixed loop

Notes

• "Sailor's breastplate" is a compound noun. The definition applies to the entire term, not to the individual words "sailor's" or "breastplate" separately.
• This term is largely archaic and is not commonly used in modern sailing or military contexts, where more standardized knot names are preferred.

Noun

1. a knot in the rope used to drag a gun carriage