1. Nautical. The system of ropes, chains, and tackle used to support and control the masts, sails, and yards of a sailing vessel.
2. The supporting material for construction work.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.