Nautical Term: Gooseneck
Definition of Gooseneck
A gooseneck is a return or 180-degree bend, characterized by one leg being shorter than the other. In the context of sailing, an iron swivel gooseneck is the fastening component between a boom and a mast. This gooseneck is made up of a pintle and an eyebolt, or a clamp, which securely holds the boom to the mast.
As an example, imagine a sailor preparing for a race. He checks all the ropes and rigging on his sailboat, including the gooseneck. The gooseneck is the strong, flexible connection between the boom and the mast. The sailor checks that the gooseneck is securely fastened and able to swivel freely, allowing the boom to move back and forth as the sail fills and empties with the wind. With all the rigging checked and secure, the sailor is ready to set sail and compete in the race.
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