luffing
Meaning
of Luff
Source: Webster's dictionarySynonyms
Phrases with the word
Examples
If the sheet is too loose the sail will flap in the wind, an occurrence that is called "luffing."
Optimum sail angle can be approximated by pulling the sheet in just so far as to make the luffing stop, or by using of tell-tales - small ribbons or yarn attached each side of the sail that both stream horizontally to indicate a properly trimmed sail.