CultureSeptember 7, 2026

halyard

HAL-yerd

Definition

A rope or cable used for raising and lowering a sail, flag, or spar on a ship.

Etymology

Derived from the nautical phrase 'hale yard,' where 'hale' means to haul or pull, reflecting its purpose of hauling up a spar or sail.

In the news

In the article, the nanny Lexy uses a halyard as a playful, makeshift tool to swing or jump down into the cabin of the boat.

‘Triffid II’ Explores the New World, Starting at Expo 67

Read the full article ↗

LOOSE CANNON | Peter Swanson

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