BOBSTAY Meaning and
Definition
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A bobstay is a term used to describe a strong, heavy rope or chain that plays a vital role in the rigging of a sailing vessel, particularly in the context of the bowsprit. More specifically, a bobstay is a type of stay that serves to secure the bowsprit to the hull of the ship, preventing excessive upward movement under the strain of the sails or rough sea conditions.
Typically made of durable materials like steel or iron, a bobstay is attached to the stem or bow of the vessel, passing through a fitting known as the bowsprit cap or bollard. The other end is secured to the bowsprit, often by means of a strong metal link or clamp. This arrangement allows the bobstay to absorb and distribute the forces generated by the pressure of the wind on the sails, providing much-needed stability and preventing the bowsprit from breaking or lifting excessively.
In addition to its stability-enhancing function, the bobstay also helps to counteract the downward pull on the bowsprit caused by the headstay or forestay. By providing an opposing force, it helps to balance the overall rigging and maintain the proper alignment of the vessel's mast, ensuring maximum efficiency and control.
In summary, a bobstay is a robust rope or chain used to secure the bowsprit to the hull of a sailing vessel, preventing excessive movement and providing stability. It plays a crucial role in the rigging system, absorbing and distributing forces and helping to maintain proper mast alignment.
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A rope used to confine the bowsprit to the stem.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BOBSTAY
- vobstay
- nobstay
- hobstay
- gobstay
- bibstay
- bkbstay
- blbstay
- bpbstay
- b0bstay
- b9bstay
- bovstay
- bonstay
- bohstay
- bogstay
- bobatay
- bobztay
- bobxtay
- bobetay
- bobwtay
- bobtay
Etymology of BOBSTAY
The word "bobstay" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "bob" and "stay".
The term "bob" can be traced back to the Middle English word "bobben", which means "to move up and down". It also has connections to the Old French word "bauban", meaning "to nod or move up and down". In nautical terms, "bob" refers to a type of movement or action of a ship, particularly the oscillatory movement caused by waves or swells.
The term "stay" in this context refers to a strong rope or cable that supports a mast or bowsprit on a sailing vessel. It derives from the Old English word "stæg" or "stægga", meaning "rope". Stays play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the mast and preventing it from collapsing under the pressure of wind or sail.
Similar spelling words for BOBSTAY
- lobster,
- boast,
- bobsled,
- baby-sit,
- bolster,
- boost,
- bust,
- babysit,
- bobcat,
- best,
- bobs,
- babysat.
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