MARLINGSPIKE Meaning and
Definition
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A marlingspike is a specialized nautical tool primarily used for splicing ropes or working with knots on ships or boats. It is a pointed tool with a wooden or metal handle, often with a hole near the end to attach a lanyard or laynard for convenience. The marlingspike has a tapered and sometimes flattened shape, designed to easily separate the strands of a rope while splicing or to insert into knots to loosen or tighten them.
The marlingspike is an essential tool for sailors and seafarers, especially for tasks requiring fine manipulation and dexterity with ropes. It is commonly used to separate strands of rope when unlaying, or untwisting, a rope for repairs or modifications. The sharp, pointed end helps to open up the strands without damaging the fibers of the rope.
The term "marlingspike" also refers to a knot. A marlingspike hitch is a type of knot used to attach a lanyard or laynard to a marlingspike. This hitch creates a secure loop around the handle of the marlingspike, allowing it to be easily carried or attached to a belt or other secure point.
Overall, a marlingspike combines the functions of a sharp-pointed implement and a handle, making it a versatile and indispensable tool for the maintenance, repair, and manipulation of ropes in a maritime setting.
Common Misspellings for MARLINGSPIKE
- narlingspike
- karlingspike
- jarlingspike
- mzrlingspike
- msrlingspike
- mwrlingspike
- mqrlingspike
- maelingspike
- madlingspike
- maflingspike
- matlingspike
- ma5lingspike
- ma4lingspike
- markingspike
- marpingspike
- maroingspike
- marlungspike
- marljngspike
- marlkngspike
Etymology of MARLINGSPIKE
The word "marlingspike" is derived from the combination of two words: "marl" and "spike".
"Marl" comes from the Old English word "mǣl", which means a tool or implement. It is also associated with the Old Norse word "māl", meaning a mark or sign. In the context of maritime terminology, "marl" originally referred to a kind of line or rope used for lashing or binding.
"Spike" comes from the Old Norse word "spīkr", meaning a sharp-pointed object or a nail. The word has roots in Proto-Germanic and ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European word "spei", meaning to sharpen.
So, when combined, "marlingspike" essentially refers to a tool used for splicing or separating the strands of a rope or for other tasks relating to marl.
Similar spelling words for MARLINGSPIKE
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