Ratlins

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Strips of canvas webbing or tape used on sailing ship masts to form a ladder-like structure between the shrouds for climbing ; narrow cloth bands fixed horizontally between the shrouds to support sailors ascending or descending the rigging ; lengths of fabric arranged in rows on a mast to facilitate access and provide handholds while climbing the rigging of a ship
2. Sections of flat, durable material attached vertically on a ship’s mast to create footholds between the supporting shrouds ; rigid or semi-rigid bands positioned on rigging lines to help sailors climb safely and securely ; woven strips inserted horizontally to reinforce rigging and offer grip points for ascent
3. Horizontal strips of cloth or tape fastened between the vertical supporting lines of a ship’s mast to act as steps ; webbing sewn or fixed across shrouds to form an improvised ladder for sailors working aloft ; structural fabric elements affixed to rigging to enable secure climbing up the mast sides

Etymology: "Ratlins" is the plural of "ratlin", the name for the thin cross-ropes that form the steps of a rope ladder, particularly the ladders rigged up the masts and shrouds of sailing ships. Sailors use the word in the plural because the rungs come in a series, so a ship's ratlins are the whole set of rope steps climbing a shroud.

Synonyms: ratlines