Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lay-to

verb
/leɪ tuː/
Definition
To bring a ship to a stop or to secure it in position.
Examples
  • The captain ordered the crew to lay-to in order to ride out the storm safely.
  • After a long day of sailing, we decided to lay-to for the night and rest.
Meaning
The term ‘lay-to’ is commonly used in nautical contexts, referring to the practice of positioning a vessel so it remains stable and secure, often against wind and waves.
Synonyms
  • Anchor
  • Secure
  • Moored