Definition

To steer a sailing boat closer to the wind, causing the sails to flap or lose wind.

Example

The captain decided to luff the sails to avoid capsizing in the strong gusts.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the sails luff when the wind changed direction?

Yeah, it's a pretty cool sight when that happens.

I always find it fascinating to watch the boat adjust.

Same here! It shows how skilled the sailors are at reading the wind.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The front part of a ship's bow or the forward edge of a sail, often related to sailing closer to the wind.

Example

The sailor adjusted the luff of the sail to catch more wind.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how the luff of a sail affects our speed?

Yeah, it really makes a difference when we’re sailing close to the wind.

Exactly! I love how adjusting the luff can change our whole experience on the water.

Definition

To raise or lower the boom of a crane or similar equipment.

Example

The operator had to luff the crane to adjust its position.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they luff the boom on that crane yesterday?

Yeah, it was impressive to watch how smoothly it moved.

I wonder if that's something I could learn to do.

Root Explanation

The word 'luff' originates from Middle English 'luffe', which is derived from the Old Norse 'luf', meaning to turn the bow of a ship towards the wind. It refers specifically to the action of sailing a ship into the wind.

Memory Tip

Imagine a ship 'turning' towards the wind — that's what 'luff' means in sailing.

Visually Confused Words