Nautical Term: Break ground
Definition of Break ground
The term ‘break ground’ is used to describe an anchor that has been lifted clear of the seabed. This expression highlights the moment when the anchor is no longer in contact with the ocean floor.
For instance, imagine a sailor on a merchant ship who is preparing to anchor in a shallow bay. As the ship approaches the anchorage, the sailor carefully monitors the depth sounder, looking for a suitable spot to drop the anchor. Once the sailor has identified a suitable location, he gives the order to ‘let go of the anchor’ and watches as the anchor chain is released, the anchor plummets towards the ocean floor, and finally, the anchor ‘breaks ground’ and comes to rest on the seabed.
Explore other nautical terms:
