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

Always use a square or reef knot in tying your reef points.

From Boy Scouts Handbook The First Edition, 1911 by Boy Scouts of America

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.

It is commenced in the same way as a common whipping, but finished off by having both ends out in the middle of the whipping and forming a reef knot.

From Knots, Bends, Splices With tables of strengths of ropes, etc. and wire rigging by Jutsum, J. Netherclift