reef knot

American  

noun

Nautical.

1. a square knot used in reefing sails.

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reef knot British  

noun

1. Also called: square knot.  a knot consisting of two overhand knots turned opposite ways

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Etymology

Origin of reef knot

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

At its end was a reef knot, twisted tightly.

From Time Magazine Archive

Though a slipped reef knot would be quicker, he thought again.

From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman

This is a reef knot, and I always make a running bowline.”

From The Secret of the Island by Kingston, William Henry Giles

"Ay! ay!" and he tied her a lover's knot as imperturbably as he had the reef knot, bowling-knot, fisherman's bend, etc.

From Love Me Little, Love Me Long by Reade, Charles

If the student would render efficient help in accidents and emergencies, to say nothing of service on scores of other occasions, he must learn how to tie a square or "reef" knot.

From A Practical Physiology by Blaisdell, Albert F.