Home Dictionary Hheeling

heeling

heeling

NounIntransitive VerbTransitive Verb

pl: heelingspast: heeledpp: heeleding: heeling

In a nautical context, this term describes the lateral inclination of a vessel. It is distinct from "rolling," which is a rhythmic side-to-side motion; heeling is typically a sustained tilt caused by external forces like wind pressure on sails or a shift in cargo. It carries a connotation of tension and physical strain on the ship's structure.

In the context of garment construction, the term is highly specialized and technical. It refers to the precise shaping of the heel area in hosiery to prevent bunching or gaps, shifting the focus from fluid motion to static, artisanal precision.

Meanings

Nounheeling

The act or process of a ship tilting to one side, typically due to wind or the pressure of the sails.

The yacht experienced severe heeling as the wind gusted from the starboard side.

Intransitive Verbheeling

To tilt or lean to one side, specifically referring to a vessel in the water.

The small boat began heeling sharply under the force of the sudden gale.

Transitive Verbheeling

[~ something]

To trim or cut the heel of a garment, such as a sock, to ensure a proper fit.

The tailor spent the afternoon heeling the custom wool stockings.

Examples

The sailboat started heeling sharply as the wind picked up.

Travel

Watch out for the heeling of the boat when we turn.

Travel

The yacht was heeling over so far that the deck almost touched the water.

Travel

I can feel the ship heeling to the starboard side.

Travel

The sudden gust of wind sent the small dinghy heeling violently.

Travel

He is still heeling the socks to make sure they fit the client perfectly.

Business

I need to spend an hour heeling these stockings before they are ready.

The experienced tailor was carefully heeling the garment to remove the excess fabric.

Why is the boat heeling like this already?

Travel

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error