LUFF UP Meaning and
Definition
-
"Luff up" is a nautical term primarily used in sailing. The verb phrase refers to the action of turning or steering a sailing vessel towards the wind, causing the sails to flutter or lose sail power due to an inability to catch the wind effectively. When a sailing craft luffs up, it is no longer being propelled forward efficiently, and its speed may slow or even come to a standstill. This maneuver is often intentional and done to slow down, change direction, or stop the boat.
The term can also be used in the context of causing a sail to lose its power deliberately, manipulating it so that it flaps or flogs in windy conditions. This action is typically employed to reduce the impact of strong winds on the sail and prevent possible damage due to excessive forces.
To luff up accurately, sailors adjust the angle of the sail relative to the wind, either by releasing the tension on the sail or by moving the bow of the boat towards the wind. By doing so, the airflow around the sail becomes separated, resulting in a loss of lift and power, ultimately decreasing the speed and momentum of the vessel.
Overall, "luff up" signifies the intentional steering action of a sailing vessel towards the wind, causing the sails to flap and decreasing forward motion for various purposes such as changing course or reducing sail force in heavy winds.
Common Misspellings for LUFF UP
- kuff up
- puff up
- ouff up
- lyff up
- lhff up
- ljff up
- liff up
- l8ff up
- l7ff up
- ludf up
- lucf up
- luvf up
- lugf up
- lutf up
- lurf up
- lufd up
- lufc up
- lufv up
- lufg up
- luft up
Etymology of LUFF UP
The term "luff up" has its origins in nautical language. "Luff" is derived from the Middle English word "lof" or "louf", which meant the direction from which the wind was blowing. It has Old Norse and Old English roots. Over time, "luff" came to specifically refer to the action of turning a sailing vessel towards the wind, causing the sails to lose power and flap. Sailors use this maneuver to slow down, change course, or come to a stop. "Up" is a direction, indicating the action of heading into the wind. Therefore, "luff up" describes the act of turning a vessel towards the wind, heading into it, and allowing the sails to lose power.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
