Nautical Term: Jack ladder
Definition of Jack ladder
—A jack ladder is a type of ladder commonly used on boats. It features wooden steps that are slanted inward towards the center of the ladder, providing extra stability when climbing. The sides of the ladder are equipped with ropes, known as side ropes, which can be used to secure the ladder against the side of the boat while someone is ascending or descending the ladder. Here is an example of how a jack ladder might be used on a boat:
‘John wanted to check the water level in the bilge of his sailboat. He tied the boat to the dock and climbed down the dock ladder into the water. He swam to the boat, grasped the side of the boat, and pulled himself up and onto the boat. Once he was aboard, he retrieved the jack ladder from the boat’s storage compartment and placed it against the side of the boat. He secured the ladder against the side of the boat using the side ropes. John then climbed up the ladder, grasping the side ropes for added security as he ascended the ladder. Once he reached the top of the ladder, he secured the ladder against the side of the boat using the side ropes and climbed back onto the dock. John was
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