The spelling of the word "reef knot" can be confusing for some due to its unusual pronunciation. The word is pronounced as /riːf nɒt/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "reef" part is spelled with two e's to indicate a long vowel sound, while the "knot" part follows a regular spelling pattern. A reef knot is a type of knot used to join two ropes or cords together, often used in sailing and other outdoor activities.
A reef knot is a type of knot that is commonly used to secure or join together two ropes or cords of equal diameter. Also known as a square knot or a double knot, it is characterized by its symmetrical appearance and its ability to hold tight under strain. The name "reef knot" originates from its historical usage on sailing ships to secure reefing points on sails.
The reef knot is formed by crossing the two ends of the ropes over each other, then passing the right end over the left end, and finally, the left end over the right end. This results in a balanced and flat knot that is in the form of a square or a rectangle. The reef knot is easy to tie and untie, making it a popular choice for various applications, such as camping, knot tying competitions, or everyday tasks.
While the reef knot is generally secure when used for joining two ropes of similar size, it can become unstable or prone to slipping when employed with ropes of unequal diameters. In such cases, it is important to use alternative knots that offer more reliability, such as the sheet bend or the fisherman's knot.
In summary, a reef knot is a versatile and practical knot used for binding ropes or cords together. Its simplicity and effectiveness have made it a well-known and widely utilized knot in various activities and industries.
Square k.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "reef knot" has an interesting etymology. The term "reef" in this context comes from the old English word "refe" meaning "band" or "binding". The knot itself is believed to have originated from Anglo-Saxon times. The Old English word "cnotta" meant "a knot", and it evolved into the Middle English word "knotte". Over time, "cnotta" began to be associated specifically with a tying a knot using cord or rope.
The term "reef knot" became popular during the 18th century when it was used to describe a particular type of knot used in sailing. The knot was often used to secure the reef point of a sail. This specific type of knot is known for its simplicity and ability to bind two ends of a rope or cord together securely.