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bowline

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈboʊlɪn/

KK: /ˈboʊlɪn/

noun
Definition

A type of knot that creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope, which does not slip or jam.


Example

Sailors often use a bowline to secure a line without worrying about it coming undone.


Conversation
Sloth A
Hey, do you know how to tie a bowline knot?
Sloth B
Yeah, I learned it while sailing last summer.
Sloth A
That's cool! I’ve heard it’s great for making a non-slipping loop.
Sloth B
Exactly! It's super useful for securing things on a boat.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
knot
loop
rope
Antonyms
slip
release
unbind
Root Explanation

Bowline → The word 'bowline' comes from the combination of 'bow' (from Old Norse 'bátr', meaning boat) and 'line' (from Old English 'līn', meaning rope or cord). A bowline is a type of knot used to secure a line to a boat, hence its name.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'boat' ('bow') being tied with a 'rope' ('line') — that's why a bowline is a knot used for securing a line to a boat.

Visually Confused Words
blowline
towline
boldine
bowie
rumbowline
rombowline
plowline
downline
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