Clewing

/ˈkluːɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The action of hauling up the lower corners of a sail; the gerund or present participle of clew.

Etymology

From clew as a verb, with the standard -ing suffix forming the gerund. A nautical technical term used to describe the ongoing action of sail adjustment.

Kelly Says

Clewing in a storm required coordination and nerve—multiple sailors had to haul together in synchrony while the ship pitched, making it one of the most dangerous and skillfull tasks aboard a tall ship.

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