lie to
C1 formal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
When a ship is stopped in the water with its front pointing into the wind.
Meanings
1 C1 formal
(Nautical) to keep a ship nearly stationary by positioning its bow into the wind, especially during a storm.
"As the squall intensified, the captain ordered the crew to lie to until it passed."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Exclusively a nautical/maritime term. Not related to 'lying to' someone (i.e., deceiving them), which is a different construction entirely. Found in historical fiction, maritime literature, and technical sailing contexts.
Commonly used with
wind gale sea vessel ship storm
Forms
Base
lie to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lies to
he/she/it
Past simple
lay to
yesterday
Past participle
lain to
have + pp
-ing form
lying to
continuous
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