Luff meaning

The luff refers to the front part of a sail where the wind hits to propel a boat forward.


Luff definitions

Word backwards fful
Part of speech Luff can be both a noun and a verb. As a noun, luff refers to the edge of a sail that is facing into the wind. As a verb, luff means to steer a sailing vessel closer to the wind or to turn the bow of a sailing vessel toward the wind.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "luff" is luff.
Plural The plural of the word "luff" is "luffs."
Total letters 4
Vogais (1) u
Consonants (2) l,f

Luff Fabric

Luff is a term used to describe the section of a sail that is located near the leading edge. It is crucial for the sail's performance, as it helps determine its shape and aerodynamic properties. The luff of a sail is typically attached to a mast or a stay, allowing it to maintain its position and catch the wind efficiently.

Importance of Luff

The luff plays a vital role in controlling the sail's shape and how it interacts with the wind. By adjusting the tension along the luff, sailors can optimize the sail's performance based on wind conditions. A well-tuned luff can improve a sail's efficiency, allowing the boat to sail faster and more effectively.

Types of Luff

There are different types of luff configurations depending on the type of sail. For example, a sail with a loose luff may be more forgiving and easier to handle in lighter winds. On the other hand, a sail with a tight luff may be more suitable for stronger winds, providing greater control and stability.

Maintaining the Luff

Proper maintenance of the luff is essential for ensuring the sail's longevity and performance. Inspecting the luff regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or stretching, can help prevent issues on the water. Additionally, adjusting the tension along the luff as needed can optimize the sail's shape and overall efficiency.

In conclusion, the luff of a sail is a critical component that directly impacts the sail's performance on the water. By understanding its importance, different configurations, and proper maintenance, sailors can harness the power of the wind more effectively and enjoy a smoother sailing experience. Shape, aerodynamic, sailors, efficiency.


Luff Examples

  1. The sailor carefully adjusted the sails to luff in order to slow the boat down.
  2. As the wind picked up, the captain ordered the crew to luff the sails to avoid a jibe.
  3. During the storm, the sailor struggled to luff the mainsail to maintain control of the boat.
  4. In order to turn the boat, the sailor had to luff the jib to catch the wind from a different direction.
  5. The experienced sailor knew exactly when to luff the sails for optimal performance.
  6. The skipper shouted instructions to luff the headsail in order to navigate through the crowded harbor.
  7. The novice sailor accidentally let the sails luff, causing the boat to lose speed unexpectedly.
  8. It is important to luff the sails correctly to maintain control of the boat in changing wind conditions.
  9. The sailor's quick reflexes allowed him to luff the sails just in time to avoid a collision with another boat.
  10. Before docking, the crew had to luff the sails to slow the boat down and prepare for arrival.


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  • Updated 13/05/2024 - 08:39:40