Riggin, also spelled as rigging, is a noun that refers to the system of ropes, chains, wires, and other devices used to support and control the sails, masts, and other components of a sailing vessel. It encompasses various components and mechanisms that enable the manipulation and adjustment of the sails and the overall handling of the boat.
The riggin serves multiple purposes in sailing. It includes the mast, which is a vertical pole or spar that supports the sails and provides stability to the vessel. The standing riggin consists of the fixed lines and wires that maintain the position and shape of the mast. On the other hand, the running riggin is the movable system that adjusts the sails and controls their position, such as halyards, sheets, and outhauls.
Furthermore, riggin also encompasses additional equipment like pulleys, winches, cleats, and blocks that are used to facilitate the mechanical advantage required in handling the sails and maneuvering the vessel effectively.
In a broader sense, riggin can also refer to the equipment and apparatus involved in various other industries, such as construction, theater, and entertainment, where the term is used to describe the framework, scaffolding, or support structure for various purposes.
Overall, the term riggin pertains to the entire assemblage of rigging components that are crucial for the effective functioning, control, and maneuverability of sailing vessels or other relevant industries.
