DictionaryjibeSailing turn
noun / verb

jibe

A turn that brings a sailboat's stern through the wind.

The crew prepared to jibe as the wind shifted.

Etymology

The Dutch sailing verb names this turn. As the stern passes through the wind, the fore-and-aft sail moves across to the other side.

More examples

  • The boom crossed the boat during the jibe.
  • She jibed carefully onto the new course.
  • A sudden jibe caught the inexperienced sailor by surprise.

Forms

jibe · jibes · jibed · jibing

Similar words

tack
Tack turns the bow through the wind; jibe turns the stern through it.
come about
Come about usually describes tacking; jibing changes course by passing the stern through the wind instead.