bow line

Loop that holds

A bowline is a knot that forms a fixed loop at the end of a rope, prized for being strong yet easy to untie.

It's fundamental in sailing and climbing: He secured the dinghy with a bowline.

The name comes from the line that held a sail's edge toward the bow of a ship.

Also spelled bow line.

Related

dock · sailing · hitch · nautical · tie · tie off · make fast · marina · secure · loop · rigging · stern · port · starboard · painter · fender · prow · anchor

Categories
Opposites
nautical position

bow linestern line

Rope from boat's rear

spring line

knot type security

bow linerunning knot

Loop that tightens freely

slip knot · granny knot · overhand knot · half hitch

Family

bowline

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G