Drabler

/ˈdræblər/ noun

Definition

A nautical term for a piece of canvas or a rope dragged in water to slow a ship or create drag.

Etymology

From 'drabble' (to drag through water) plus the agent noun suffix '-er'. Nautical terminology preserved this specific meaning for ship equipment.

Kelly Says

A drabler is such a specific nautical tool that it's barely survived even in maritime history—yet it reveals how sailors named everything after what it *does*, making their language incredibly descriptive.

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