BOXHAULED Meaning and
Definition
-
Boxhauled is a maritime term primarily used in sailing to describe a maneuver performed by a sailing vessel when it changes direction against the wind. Also known as box-hauling or boxhauling, it is a technique used to reverse the vessel's heading while sailing with the wind coming directly from the bow.
During a boxhaul, the ship's bow crosses through the wind, causing the sails to "luff" or lose power momentarily. This maneuver requires skill and careful control of the sails, as the sudden change in wind direction can put stress on the rigging and hull.
Boxhauling is typically employed when tacking or changing course is not possible due to various factors, such as limited space or obstacles that impede the vessel's ability to turn. By using this maneuver, sailors can effectively turn their ship, altering its course in a restricted area.
Historically, boxhauling was often employed by sailing ships in narrow channels or rivers where there was insufficient space to complete traditional tacks. Although less common in modern sailing, the technique is still relevant, particularly in competitive sailing disciplines that demand precise control and quick changes of direction.
In summary, boxhauled is a term used to describe a maneuver in sailing where a vessel changes direction against the wind by momentarily crossing directly into the wind.
Common Misspellings for BOXHAULED
- voxhauled
- noxhauled
- hoxhauled
- goxhauled
- bixhauled
- bkxhauled
- blxhauled
- bpxhauled
- b0xhauled
- b9xhauled
- bozhauled
- bochauled
- bodhauled
- boshauled
- boxgauled
- boxbauled
- boxnauled
- boxjauled
- boxuauled
- boxyauled
Etymology of BOXHAULED
The term "boxhauled" is derived from the nautical practice known as box-hauling, which originated in the 17th century. "Box-hauling" is a maneuver performed by sailors to change the direction of a sailing ship, especially when the wind is blowing directly against its intended course.
The word "haul" comes from Middle English and Old French, with roots in the Germanic word "halon", which means to pull or drag. In the context of sailing, "haul" refers to the act of adjusting the position of the sails to change the direction of the ship.
The term "box" in "box-hauling" refers to the square shape formed by the course of the ship during this maneuver. The ship changes direction by bringing the bow directly into the wind until it is "in irons" (when the sails lose all driving power due to wind direction).
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
