ratline

noun
rat·​line | \ ˈrat-lən How to pronounce ratline (audio) \

Definition of ratline

: any of the small transverse ropes attached to the shrouds of a ship so as to form the steps of a rope ladder usually used in plural

Illustration of ratline

Illustration of ratline

First Known Use of ratline

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for ratline

Middle English radelyng

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