Ropes (sheets, haulyards, mainbrace) ends would eventually unravel and fray. This was known as "a loose end". With so many lines onboard an old sailing ship the job of whipping loose ends was never ending. So, whenever a sailor was idle he would be ordered to go and find some loose ends to tie up; a boring job that would keep him busy for a long time.
By SailingQuiz November 2019 Category: Nautical Saying
0 0 158 Back
No reviews or comments on "At a loose end" yet. If you can see a problem or you want to add something to our explanation or you just want to let us know what you think, then click on the pen and papar icon above.
There are 423 other nautical phrases, sayings and sailing terms listed on this website today. "At a loose end" is just one of them. Many have been around for years and have entered our everyday use; but do you know what they mean and where they came from? This is where you find out.
Why not use our sailing quiz to build your understanding of sailing terms and boat trivia whilst you tackle the questions designed to help you pass your next sailing course.
What does At a loose end mean?
What is the nautical origin of the phrase "At a loose end"?
Definition of the nautical phrase "At a loose end".
Review SailingQuiz