Heave to

usgb
verb

To slow down or stop a ship by adjusting the sails (in a specific way).

The captain ordered the crew to heave to during the storm.
Visual representation of "heave to" - To slow down or stop a ship by adjusting the sails (in a specific way).

Often appears as...

  • ship heave to
  • heave to in a storm

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "heave to"
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Nautical Origin

Originally a sailing term, used mainly in marine contexts.

Illustration for Nautical Origin
During maneuvers, we were taught how to heave to.
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Emergency Action

Used for safety during storms or to avoid danger.

Illustration for Emergency Action
To avoid capsizing, they had to heave to until the squall passed.
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Stability at Sea

When heaving to, the ship maintains a stable position in the water.

Illustration for Stability at Sea
Heave to and maintain this position until further notice.
Visual representation of the word "Heave to"

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