English Expression · Intermediate

tail block

A block having a rope about it, and on an end hanging several feet from it

Pronunciation: say tail block

Meaning

A pulley block equipped with a short length of rope (a tail) used for securing it to a spar or other rigging.

Example

The sailor used a tail block to secure the line to the boom.

The sailor used a tail block to secure the line to the boom.

Practice tips

More English intermediate vocabulary

Learn more English