Luff
verb
To steer a sailing boat closer into the wind.
The captain decided to luff the sails to avoid the approaching storm.

Usage tips
Neutral
luff up, luffing motion, luffing the sails
verb
To luff means to bring sails closer to the wind, thus reducing the speed of the boat.
He needed to luff quickly to avoid crashing into the dock.

Usage tips
Neutral
luff the sails, luff windward, luffing action
verb
To steer a sailing boat closer into the wind.
The captain decided to luff the sails to avoid the approaching storm.

Usage tips
Neutral
luff up, luffing motion, luffing the sails
verb
To luff means to bring sails closer to the wind, thus reducing the speed of the boat.
He needed to luff quickly to avoid crashing into the dock.

Usage tips
Neutral
luff the sails, luff windward, luffing action
Definition 1 of 2

Nautical Term
Luff is specifically used in sailing; understanding this context is crucial.
When sailing, if you luff too much, you may lose speed.
Informal Use
Though nautical, 'luff' can be used more casually to imply affection.
In phrases like 'give a luff,' it connotes a friendly gesture.
Nautical Term
Luff is specifically used in sailing; understanding this context is crucial.
When sailing, if you luff too much, you may lose speed.
Informal Use
Though nautical, 'luff' can be used more casually to imply affection.
In phrases like 'give a luff,' it connotes a friendly gesture.
Nautical Term
Luff is specifically used in sailing; understanding this context is crucial.
When sailing, if you luff too much, you may lose speed.
Informal Use
Though nautical, 'luff' can be used more casually to imply affection.
In phrases like 'give a luff,' it connotes a friendly gesture.
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