swifter🔊noun/ˈswɪftəɹ/Etymology Compare swivel.1Nautical, Transport A rope used to retain the bars of the capstan in their sockets while it is being turned.2Nautical, Transport A rope used to encircle a boat longitudinally, to strengthen and defend her sides.3Nautical, Transport The forward shroud of a lower mast.
swifter🔊verbEtymology Compare swivel.1Nautical, Transport To tighten (e.g. slack standing rigging) by bringing the opposite shrouds nearer.