Pronunciation: [hˈandspa͡ɪk] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "handspike" may seem confusing to some, but it follows a consistent pattern in English. The first syllable, "hand," is pronounced with the /hænd/ sound. The second syllable, "spike," is pronounced with the /spaɪk/ sound. Therefore, the correct spelling of this word is "handspike" and not "handspike" or "hanspike." A handspike is a tool used on ships to turn large screws or move heavy objects.
A handspike is a nautical tool or implement used aboard ships and boats for various purposes. It is a long iron bar or wooden lever with one end pointed or flattened, and the other end often shaped into a hook or knob. The pointed end is used for prying, loosening, or pricking, while the hook or knob end is utilized for grabbing or pulling objects.
Handspikes were commonly employed to leverage heavy objects, such as moving cargo or adjusting rigging. They could be inserted into gaps or used as makeshift levers to lift or shift items. The versatile design of the handspike enabled sailors to apply force and exert pressure, making it an essential tool for the maneuvers and operations aboard seafaring vessels.
Handspikes were particularly popular during the age of sail when ships relied on manual labor for various tasks. Sailors would use handspikes to assist in raising or lowering sails, adjusting rigging lines, or turning capstans. The robust construction of the handspike made it suitable for withstanding the demanding conditions often encountered at sea.
Today, handspikes are mainly found on traditional or historic vessels but have been largely replaced by more advanced tools and machinery in modern seafaring practices. Nevertheless, the handspike's significance in shipbuilding, maritime exploration, and naval history remains as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of past generations of sailors.
The word "handspike" has its roots in Old English and Middle English. The term is a combination of two words: "hand" and "spike".
- "Hand" comes from the Old English word "hand" which means "the end part of the human arm beyond the wrist". It has Indo-European roots and is related to words in other Germanic languages such as German "hand" and Dutch "hand".
- "Spike" comes from the Middle English word "spīke" which means "a long, slender, pointed piece of metal or wood". This word originated from the Old English word "spīc", which is believed to be of Germanic origin and related to the German "spitze" and Dutch "spijker".
When combined, "handspike" refers to a long, slender tool or lever that can be grasped and used by hand.
