Nautical Term: Cable

Definition of Cable

Cable is a term used s to describe a chain or line (usually a heavy rope) that is bent or shaped to fit around an anchor or other large, immovable object.

For example, when a ship is preparing to anchor, the crew will first lower the anchor cable (also known as the anchor rope or chain) to the seafloor. The anchor is then lowered onto the seafloor, and the cable is winched back in to hold the ship in place.

Explore other nautical terms:

Head back to the Nautical Dictionary