Nautical Term: Reef
Definition of Reef
A reef is a mechanism used to reduce the surface area of a sail. This is accomplished by securing the reef points, which are specifically designed for use in rough weather conditions.
For example, During a storm at sea, the captain ordered his crew to reef the sails. As the waves grew larger and the wind howled through the rigging, the crew members worked quickly and efficiently to secure the reef points. With the sails now reefed, the ship was able to weather the storm with less strain on the rigging and hull.
Explore other nautical terms:
