Fag. A rope is fagged when the end is untwisted.
Fair-leader. A strip of board or plank, with holes in it, for running rigging to lead through. Also, a block or thimble used for the same purpose.
Fake. One of the circles or rings made in coiling a rope.
Fall. That part of a tackle to which the power is applied in hoisting.
False Keel. Pieces of timber secured under the main keel of vessels.
Fancy-line. A line rove through a block at the jaws of a gaff, used as a downhaul. Also, a line used for cross-hauling the lee topping-lift.
Fashion-pieces. The aftermost timbers, terminating the breadth and forming the shape of the stern.
Fast. A rope by which a vessel is secured to a wharf. There are bow or head, breast, quarter, and stern fasts.
Fathom. Six feet.
Feather. To feather an oar in rowing, is to turn the blade horizontally with the top aft as it comes out of the water.