Definition

A type of knot used to shorten a rope or line without cutting it.

Example

The sailor tied a sheepshank to secure the extra length of rope.

Conversation

I learned a new knot today called the sheepshank.

Oh really? What is it used for?

It's mainly used to shorten a line, but it seems a bit tricky.

Sounds interesting! I need to practice it sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Sheepshank** → The word is formed from "sheep" (from Old English *sceap*, meaning a domesticated animal raised for wool and meat) and "shank" (from Old English *sceanca*, meaning the lower part of the leg). A sheepshank is a knot used to shorten a rope, metaphorically relating to the idea of 'shortening' as one might shorten the leg of a sheep.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sheep' and a 'leg' ('shank') — a sheepshank is a knot that shortens something, just like how you might shorten the leg of a sheep.

Visually Confused Words