noun
- plural of catfall; ropes or tackle used on a ship to hoist the anchor to the cathead
Usage: nautical; chiefly historical
Examples
- The sailors secured the catfalls before raising the anchor.
- The ship's crew worked the catfalls to lift the heavy anchor into position.
- Proper maintenance of the catfalls was essential for safe anchor operations.
- The captain ordered the catfalls checked before the voyage began.