Old Weather Forum

A boom having one end fastened to the side of the ship abreast of the fore swifter, used at sea to extend the foot of the lower studdingsail. In port it is swung out at right angles so that boats may be fastened to it. Also called lower boom.

Brightwork also known historically as "bright work" refers to the exposed and varnished wood or metal work of a boat. The metal is usually brass or bronze that is kept polished, or stainless steel, which requires less maintenance.

The ram is really the key part or “foundation” of the steering system

A pawl is a movable lever that engages a fixed component to either prevent movement in one direction or restrain it altogether. As such, it is a type of latch and can also be considered a type of dog. It typically consists of a spring-loaded lever that engages a mating component at a steep enough angle to restrain it.

The bitt end (or bitter end) refers to the final part of the anchor rope near to where the rope is fixed to the ship's deck. Usually marked with coloured rags, the bitter end gets its name from the bollards (or bitts) on the deck to which the anchor rope was tied.