clove hitch

noun \ ˈklōv- \

Definition of clove hitch

: a knot securing a rope temporarily to an object (such as a post or spar) and consisting of a turn around the object, over the standing part, around the object again, and under the last turn — see knot illustration

Recent Examples of clove hitch from the Web

Philpott described the overhand and clove hitch knots found on the body as common in nautical uses.

— pauline repard, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Expert mariner shows how knots tied on Rebecca Zahau," 7 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'clove hitch.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of clove hitch

Middle English cloven, clove divided, from past participle of clevien to cleave

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: circa 1769

in the meaning defined above

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Learn More about clove hitch

See words that rhyme with clove hitch Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about clove hitch

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