jib

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun any triangular fore-and-aft sail (set forward of the foremast)
  2. verb refuse to comply
  3. verb shift from one side of the ship to the other

Etymology

Attested since the 1660s, of uncertain origin. Perhaps related to jib (“shift or swing around”) (see below).

In classic literature

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