Nautical Terms - Test Your Knowledge

[LeadTurn_SD]

"Rope" or "Line"?

Answer: From my training at the Maritime Academy, and from many old grizzled bosuns who, in more colorful terms, explained the difference between "rope" and "line" to all the Midshipmen: A rope is a "rope" until it is put into use (aboard ship), then it becomes a "line". And of course, there are some exceptions to the rule, where some lines continue to be called "ropes". When in doubt, if on a boat or ship, just call a "rope" a "line" and you will usually be correct

 

[Scott M]

NEXT QUESTION. What is a Arch Board?

I believe that is the board that mounts to the stern of the ship to display the ships name.

 

[cdiver2]

I believe that is the board that mounts to the stern of the ship to display the ships name.

Im going to run out of cigars.

NEXT QUESTION.
We have all heard the term Scuttlebutt, what is it and how did it come to its present day meaning?

 

[Thalassamania]

The water bucket on deck where sailors gathered and gossiped

 

[cdiver2]

The water bucket on deck where sailors gathered and gossiped

Sort off. Butt = Barrel Scuttle = To make a hole in the top of the Butt so a ladle could be dipped in. And of course gossip took place there.

Kind like today's office water fountain.

Next QUESTION. What is a dead light

 

[muddiver]

In the Marine Corps a Scuttle Butt is a water fountain (probably holds true in the USN).

 

[Bob3]

dead light = port light, landlubber talk for a boat's window that doesn't open.

We used to take great delight in sending the "new kids" down to the bosun's locker to get a roll of shoreline.

 

[cdiver2]

dead light = port light, landlubber talk for a boat's window that doesn't open.

We used to take great delight in sending the "new kids" down to the bosun's locker to get a roll of shoreline.

You are on the right track though

 

[Aeolus]

Here is a little more info.

When you buy it, it is a rope.

When it comes on board, it is a line :blinking:

If you use it to hoist sails, it is a halyard. :depressed:

If you use it to control sails, it is a sheet. :shocked2:

If you use it on an anchor it is a rode.

All of this for a piece of rope.

 

[Pug211]

A dead light is a shutter for the portal.