broach to
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
To incline suddenly and involuntarily to windward, which can expose the vessel to the risk of capsizing.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
“Haul in your jib sheet and flatten those staysails sharp! I want to bring her round to the wind handsomely, to prevent taking in another of those green seas aboard when we get broadside-on. Look smart, bo’sun, and keep your eye on her. Keep your eye on her, d’you hear? It’s ticklish work, you know.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “broach to” mean?
To incline suddenly and involuntarily to windward, which can expose the vessel to the risk of capsizing.
Is “broach to” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.