fairlead

American  

[fair-leed] / ˈfɛərˌlid /

Also fairleader

noun

1. a pulley, thimble, etc., used to guide a rope forming part of the rigging of a ship, crane, etc., in such a way as to prevent chafing.

2. Machinery. (on power shovels or cranes) a swiveling mounting for sheaves, over which cables pass.

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fairlead British  

/ ˈfɛəˌliːd /

noun

1. Also called: leader.  nautical a block or ring through which a line is rove to keep it clear of obstructions, prevent chafing, or maintain it at an angle

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Etymology

Origin of fairlead

First recorded in 1855–60; fair ¹ + lead ¹

Example Sentences

Judson was watching the last hawser slipping through the fairlead.

From Soldiers Three - Part 2 by Kipling, Rudyard

He regretted that he had not doubled the rope, but now nothing could be done beyond putting a temporary "parcelling" round it where it passed through the bow fairlead.

From The Wireless Officer by Westerman, Percy F. (Percy Francis)