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

"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 ends are not crossed correctly when making the reef knot, the false reef or granny is the result.

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

It must then be tied very firmly and secured with a reef knot.

From A Manual of the Operations of Surgery For the Use of Senior Students, House Surgeons, and Junior Practitioners by Bell, Joseph