Nautical Term: Trick

Definition of Trick

:The duration of time that the helmsman, also known as the wheelsman, remains stationed at the wheel, maintaining control of the ship’s direction.

For example, during a storm, the captain may instruct the helmsman to hold a steady course through the turbulent waves. Thus, the helmsman’s trick, or watch, at the wheel becomes crucial to the ship’s safe passage through the storm.

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