What does hawse mean?
A hawse is a crucial feature of a ship's design, allowing the anchor cable to move freely while the ship is underway. The term has been in use since the 14th century, derived from the Old English word 'hause', meaning 'channel' or 'opening'. In modern times, the term is primarily used in the context of naval architecture and sailing. While the concept of a hawse may seem complex, it is an essential component of a ship's infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient anchoring. The hawse is a testament to the ingenuity of shipbuilders and sailors throughout history, who have developed innovative solutions to navigate the challenges of the sea. As a result, the hawse remains an important part of maritime history and a vital component of modern sailing vessels.
nounA hawse is a channel or opening in a ship's hull through which the anchor cable passes. It is typically located at the bow of the ship and is designed to allow the cable to move freely while the ship is underway.
- 1. A channel or opening in a ship's hull through which the anchor cable passes.
"The sailor carefully guided the anchor cable through the hawse as the ship prepared to drop anchor."
"The sailor carefully guided the anchor cable through the hawse as the ship prepared to drop anchor."
"The ship's hawse was designed to withstand the stresses of heavy anchoring."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hawse
The term 'hawse' is derived from the Old English word 'hause', meaning 'channel' or 'opening'. This word is thought to be related to the Proto-Germanic word '*hausiz', which is also the source of the Modern English word 'house'. The term 'hawse' has been in use since the 14th century, primarily in the context of naval architecture and sailing.
Usage notes
The term 'hawse' is primarily used in the context of naval architecture and sailing. It is an essential component of a ship's infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient anchoring. The hawse is a testament to the ingenuity of shipbuilders and sailors throughout history, who have developed innovative solutions to navigate the challenges of the sea.