noun
sheet
A rope used to control a sail.
She eases the sheet to let the sail out.
Etymology
The older source concerns a corner or projecting edge. Nautical usage transferred the name from the sail's corner to the rope controlling it.
More examples
- Pull the sheet in to bring the sail closer.
- The jib's sheet runs through a block beside the cockpit.
- He checks the sheets for wear before we sail.
Forms
sheet · sheets