noun
- the action of reducing the area of a sail by folding or rolling part of it
Usage: nautical
verb
- present participle of reef: reducing the area of a sail by folding or rolling part of it
Usage: nautical
Examples
- The crew began reefing the mainsail as the wind picked up.
- Proper reefing technique is essential for safe sailing in heavy weather.
- They were reefing the jib when the storm hit.
- The captain ordered reefing of all sails before the squall arrived.
- Learning reefing procedures is part of basic seamanship.
- The sailors practiced reefing in calm conditions.