round turn

noun

1

: one turn of a rope round a timber or belaying pin or around a bollard on a pier to stop a ship suddenly

2

: a foul hawse resulting from a 720-degree turn made by a ship riding at two anchors compare elbow in hawse

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined at sense 2

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now