luff
/lʌf/
noun
- The forward edge of a sail, especially on a fore-and-aft rig.
- He adjusted the tension along the luff to improve the sail's shape.
- Check the luff of the mainsail for any tears before setting out.
- The wind caught the luff and the boat picked up speed.
verb
- To steer a sailing vessel closer to the wind, causing the sails to shake or lose power.
- The captain ordered the crew to luff the sails during the sudden gust.
- He learned to luff as part of his basic sailing lessons.
- You need to luff carefully to avoid capsizing in strong winds.