noun
reefer
A sailor who handles or shortens sails.
The reefer shortens the sail as the wind grows stronger.
Etymology
The ending -er names someone who reefs a sail. The role involves reducing the sail's exposed area by gathering and securing part of it.
More examples
- Two reefers climb aloft to help reduce the sail.
- The captain orders the reefer to secure the folded canvas.
- An experienced reefer teaches the crew how to shorten sails.
Forms
reefer · reefers
reef verb — To shorten a sail by folding.
Similar words
- sailor
- A general crew member, not specifically someone who handles sails.