Definitions
from The Century Dictionary.
- Nautical, to shoot ahead, as a sailing vessel during the evolution of tacking.
Etymologies
Sorry, no etymologies found.
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Examples
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That we were gradually overhauling the chase was evident from the fact that we were slowly raising her, while she was unable to head-reach upon us; and at sunset we could see the foot of her topsail from the deck while she had not altered her bearing from us by so much as a quarter point since we had last hauled our wind.
A Middy in Command A Tale of the Slave Squadron Harry Collingwood 1886
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When we again had time to take a glance to leeward at the "Vigilant," we discovered that well-named craft bowling along under whole canvas, and evidently trying her hardest to head-reach upon us.
Under the Meteor Flag Log of a Midshipman during the French Revolutionary War Harry Collingwood 1886
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When almost within head-reach of the fastenings by which the mules are held, one of the latter slews suddenly round, and sends her heels in a well-directed fling against the head of the foremost horse!
The Wild Huntress Love in the Wilderness Mayne Reid 1850
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