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reef

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reefs

Main Entry:: ¹reef
Pronunciation:: \ˈrēf\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English riff, from Old Norse rif; probably akin to Old Norse rīfa to rend — more at rive
Date:: 14th century

1 : a part of a sail taken in or let out in regulating size 2 : reduction in sail area by reefing

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