DOLPHIN STRIKER Meaning and
Definition
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A dolphin striker is a nautical term used to refer to a structural component found on certain types of sailboats, particularly schooners and sloops. It consists of a long spar or pole that is attached to the lowermost part of the bowsprit, extending downward and forward towards the bow. The purpose of the dolphin striker is to provide additional support and reinforcement for the bowsprit, preventing it from flexing or being subjected to excessive strain under the pressure of the sails.
Typically made of wood or metal, the dolphin striker is securely fastened to the bowsprit and also connected to the vessel's hull, usually near the stem. This arrangement helps distribute the forces generated by the wind pushing against the sails evenly and redirects them downwards, effectively stabilizing the bowsprit and preventing it from bending or breaking.
The name "dolphin striker" is believed to have originated from a dolphin fish, also known as a mahi-mahi, as it resembles the shape of the spar as it plunges downward towards the bow. The term "striker" refers to its role in striking or breaking up the force of the waves as the boat sails through rough seas.
Overall, the dolphin striker plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of a sailboat, particularly while under sail, by reinforcing and stabilizing the bowsprit, thereby ensuring safe and efficient navigation.
Common Misspellings for DOLPHIN STRIKER
- solphin striker
- xolphin striker
- colphin striker
- folphin striker
- rolphin striker
- eolphin striker
- dilphin striker
- dklphin striker
- dllphin striker
- dplphin striker
- d0lphin striker
- d9lphin striker
- dokphin striker
- dopphin striker
- doophin striker
- dolohin striker
- dollhin striker
- dol-hin striker
- dol0hin striker
Etymology of DOLPHIN STRIKER
The word "dolphin striker" has its etymology rooted in the sphere of sailing. It originated in the early 19th century from the combination of two nautical terms: "dolphin" and "striker".
The term "dolphin" refers to a type of structure or spar found on some sailing vessels. Dolphins were usually located beneath the bowsprit, which is a long spar extending forward from the bow of a ship. Dolphins acted as a support to strengthen and stabilize the bowsprit.
On the other hand, a "striker" refers to a piece of rigging used to brace or support a mast, spar, or boom. Strikers are designed to prevent excessive movement or flexing of these structures, maintaining their stability.
When combined, the term "dolphin striker" refers to a diagonal brace or spar that connects the bowsprit to the ship's stem or hull.
Similar spelling word for DOLPHIN STRIKER
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