SHEEPSHANK Meaning and
Definition
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A sheepshank is a specific type of knot that is used to shorten a rope or to take up the slack in a loose line. It is typically formed by making two or three loops in the rope and then passing the free end through these loops. This creates a temporary knot that can be easily untied when the tension is released.
The sheepshank knot is known for its ability to adjust the length of a rope without compromising its strength. It is commonly used in situations where a long rope needs to be temporarily shortened, such as securing a load on a truck or tying down a tarp. The knot's name is derived from its resemblance to a shank, which is the part of a sheep's leg between the knee and the foot.
Although the sheepshank knot is useful in certain scenarios, it is not regarded as a reliable knot for long-term situations. It has a tendency to slip or come undone under heavy or prolonged strain. As such, it is primarily used as a temporary solution rather than a permanent knot.
Overall, the sheepshank is a versatile knot that serves the purpose of adjusting rope length efficiently. Its simplicity and ease of untying make it an essential knot to have in one's repertoire, particularly in situations where the length of a rope needs to be quickly altered.
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Among sailors, a peculiar knot made to shorten a rope.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SHEEPSHANK
- aheepshank
- zheepshank
- xheepshank
- dheepshank
- eheepshank
- wheepshank
- sgeepshank
- sbeepshank
- sneepshank
- sjeepshank
- sueepshank
- syeepshank
- shwepshank
- shsepshank
- shdepshank
- shrepshank
- sheeoshank
- shee0shank
- sheeshank
- sheeqshank
Etymology of SHEEPSHANK
The word "sheepshank" has a nautical origin. It stems from the combination of two words: "sheep" and "shank".
- "Sheep" refers to a type of knot that is used to temporarily shorten a rope or hold it in a specific position. This knot was commonly used by shepherds to secure the legs of a sheep to prevent it from wandering away.
- "Shank" refers to the part of a rope between the loop or bight and the end.
The term "sheepshank" was adopted in the early 19th century as the name for a type of knot that resembles the way a sheepshank is tied. The knot itself is often used to temporarily shorten a rope without cutting or permanently altering it.
Similar spelling words for SHEEPSHANK
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