rigging

noun

rig·​ging ˈri-giŋ How to pronounce rigging (audio)
-gən
1
a
: lines and chains used aboard a ship especially in working sail and supporting masts and spars
b
: a similar network (as in theater scenery) used for support and manipulation
2

Examples of rigging in a Sentence

They checked the rigging before they set sail. even at the Ivies they dress in the standard rigging of the college student: T-shirt and jeans
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This followed the European Parliament’s rejection of Georgia’s recent elections, amidst claims of vote rigging. Alan Taylor, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2025 The vessel’s rigging rises far above the deck, forming a cat’s cradle of masts, ropes, and sails. Justin Davidson, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025 Pakistan has been embroiled in political controversy since the 2023 imprisonment of former Prime Minster Imran Khan, who remains popular, and a 2024 election that brought his rival party into power amid widespread allegations of vote rigging. Betsy Joles, NPR, 2 Mar. 2025 With no genuine opposition and a history of vote rigging, Lukashenko – in power since 1994 – has further slanted things in his favor this time around by banning overseas voting, removing the minimum turnout threshold and awarding himself lifelong immunity and a permanent seat in parliament. Tatsiana Kulakevich, The Conversation, 23 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigging

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ragging, riggyng fitting out of a ship

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of rigging was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rigging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigging. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

rigging

noun
rig·​ging ˈrig-iŋ How to pronounce rigging (audio)
-ən
1
: the ropes and chains used aboard a ship especially in working sail and supporting masts and spars
2
: equipment for supporting and working something (as theater scenery)

More from Merriam-Webster on rigging

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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