luffing

But a really wicked white squall {110} requires luffing, that is, bringing her head so close to the wind that it will strike her at the acutest angle possible without losing its pressure in the right direction altogether.

All Afloat A Chronicle of Craft and Waterways William Charles Henry Wood 1905

A puff of wind was heeling the boat over till the deck was awash, and he, one hand on tiller and the other on main-sheet, was luffing slightly, at the same time peering ahead to make out the near-lying north shore.

Chapter 20 2010

Engines on watercraft have long obviated the need to mess about with furling and unfurling canvas, luffing and gybing and all the other soggy inconveniences.

It's Alive! Vinyl Makes a Comeback Eric Felten 2012

Every needful thing and needless thing piled on tabletops beneath the luffing blue canvas.

GuildWars Edge of Destiny J. Robert King 2011

If the economy were a 19th century clipper, it would be fair to say its mainsail—consumer spending—is luffing, the nautical term for flapping in the wind.

The 'Real' Truth About Consumer Spending Paul Vigna 2011

Every needful thing and needless thing piled on tabletops beneath the luffing blue canvas.

GuildWars Edge of Destiny J. Robert King 2011

Every needful thing and needless thing piled on tabletops beneath the luffing blue canvas.

GuildWars Edge of Destiny J. Robert King 2011

Every needful thing and needless thing piled on tabletops beneath the luffing blue canvas.

GuildWars Edge of Destiny J. Robert King 2011

Cahill turned to see Napoleon bounding across the lawn, foolish ears flapping like luffing sails.

Coping Stones Ann Beattie 2010

Cahill turned to see Napoleon bounding across the lawn, foolish ears flapping like luffing sails.

The New Yorker Stories Ann Beattie 2010