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ratlin

 - 2 dictionary results

rat⋅line

  [rat-lin]
Use ratlin in a Sentence
–noun Nautical.
1. any of the small ropes or lines that traverse the shrouds horizontally and serve as steps for going aloft.
2. Also, ratline stuff. three-stranded, right-laid, tarred hemp stuff of from 6 to 24 threads, used for ratlines, lashings, etc.
Also, ratlin.

Origin:
1475–85; earlier ratling, radelyng < ?
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To ratlin
rat·line also rat·lin   (rāt'lĭn)   
n.  

  1. Any of the small ropes fastened horizontally to the shrouds of a ship and forming a ladder for going aloft.

  2. The material used for these ropes.


[Middle English rathelinge (line), wattling, ratline (cord).]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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