bobstay
/ˈbɑbˌsteɪ/
noun
- A rope or cable on a sailboat that runs from the bowsprit (a pole at the front) down to the hull, helping to support the bowsprit.
- The sailor checked the bobstay to make sure it was tight before the voyage.
- A broken bobstay can cause the bowsprit to bend or snap.
- He learned how to replace the bobstay during his sailing lessons.