Pronunciation: [ˈe͡ɪpiːk] (IPA) 
The word "apeak" is a nautical term referring to an object sticking up vertically from the water. It is pronounced /əˈpiːk/ using the IPA phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling of the word can be confusing, as it is often mistaken for "a peak" or "up peak." However, the correct spelling is "apeak," which comes from the Old English word "on pēacan" meaning "to pitch or toss a ship."
Apeak is an adverb used to describe a specific position or arrangement of objects, typically in a vertical alignment. It refers to the state or condition in which an object or structure is positioned straight up or perpendicular to a certain reference point, such as the vertical axis. This term is commonly used in maritime contexts to describe the positioning of an anchor when it is raised vertically, hanging from the hawsepipe of a ship.
In a nautical setting, apeak is also frequently associated with the anchor cable, which is said to be "hove (or brought) apeak" when it is completely straight and aligned with the ship's vertical axis. This position allows for efficient recovery and stowing of the anchor. Apeak is often achieved by using a capstan or a windlass to pull the anchor cable in, thus raising the anchor and bringing it vertically above the water surface or seabed.
In a more general sense, apeak can also be applied to other objects or structures that are aligned vertically or are positioned upright. This can include flagpoles, masts, cranes, or any other vertical elements, which are considered apeak when they are standing straight up and perpendicular to the ground or a reference point.
Overall, apeak is a term that denotes a vertical alignment or positioning of an object, often used in the maritime domain to describe the raised position of an anchor or a vertical arrangement of various structures.
On the peak or point; in a posture to pierce.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "apeak" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the Middle Low German word "upekop" which means "upon the head". This was later borrowed into the Dutch language as "op de kop" or "opgekopt" which also means "upside down" or "on the head". The word then entered the English language around the 16th century as "apeak". Originally, it referred to the position of a ship's anchor when it is raised close to the ship's bow, with the flukes pointing upward. Over time, the meaning expanded to represent something being in a vertical or upright position.
