GLOSSARY OF ROPE TERMINOLOGY

Tackle
Also called block and tackle. A means of gaining leverage by a line run through one or more blocks; usually two or more. The number of lines which support the load determine the mechanical advantage.

Tarred
A coating of tar applied to various fibers, ropes, manila, nylon, etc. to limit absorbency.

Technora®
A para-aramid fiber developed by Teijin, that is characterized by high tensile strength, and excellent resistance to heat and chemicals.

Tensile Strength
The resistance of rope to a force tending to break it; also called breaking strength, or the force that must be applied to break a rope.

Texturize
To process fibers in such a way as to ass texture and/or loft to the fiber.

Thimble
Metal ring or eyelet around which a line is spliced. The line fits into the concave outside; the convex inside bears the strain and wear.

Timberheads
The end of a rib in a ship's frame that projects above the deck and is used as a bollard.

Topline
Also called float line or cork line; a floating line on top of a net.

Torque
The tendency of a rope to rotate under a load.

Tow
To pull; also, one or more barges or other floating vessels in charge of a self-propelled vessel which is transporting it or them.

Trot Line
In fishing, a comparatively short set line used near shore or along streams.

Truck Rope
Three strand polypropylene rope made to meet the standards established by the State of California, for holding down cargo or canvas in heavy truck transporting.

Twist
The number of turns about the axis applied to a fiber, yarn, strand or rope over a given length to combine the individual elements into a larger and stronger structure. The direction of rotation about the axis denoted as "S" (left hand) or "Z" (right hand) twist.

UHMWPE Ultra High Molecular Weigh Polyethylene
This is a polyolefin fiber that is both high strength and light weight. It is sold under the trade names Spectra and Dyneema. It is also referred to as extended-chain PE or HMPE.

U.V. Resistance
Ability of a rope fiber to withstand decay due to the damaging effect of the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Venetian Blind Cord
A braided cord generally of nylon or cotton with various fiber cores.

Webbing
A sturdy fabric woven in narrow widths for use where strength is required as for seat belts, head bands, etc.

Welt Cord
A tape covered cord sewn into a seam as reinforcement or trimming.

Whipping
A cord thread used to lash or bind the end of a rope to prevent unlaying.

Working End
The end of a rope being worked into a knot.

Working Load
Also known as working strength; the weight in pounds that is recommended for safe working conditions. It is applied to new rope in good condition with appropriate splices and only under normal service conditions. Where dynamic loading may occur, the recommended working load should be adjusted accordingly.

Yacht Braid
A rope constructed from an inner hollow single braided rope (core) which has another hollow single braided rope constructed around its exterior (skin). Usually this is polyester over polyester. Both the core and skin share the load on the rope but not necessarily in equal amounts. Also referred to as Double Braid, Marine Braid, and Braid on Braid

Yarn
Long fibers or filaments twisted together. Also, the base component that is combined to form a strand.

Yoke Lifejacket
Primarily designed for pack-carrying troops in an amphibious operation. It will keep an individual afloat even with a full pack of gear.

Z-Twist
Right handed twist; A twist that would be laid out by turning the yarn or rope in a clockwise direction.