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

See Examples For:

fairlead

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 Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman

Judson was watching the last hawser slipping through the fairlead.

From Soldiers Three - Part 2 by Rudyard Kipling