backstay (redirected from backstays)

backstay [′bak‚stā]

(engineering)

A supporting cable that prevents a more or less vertical object from falling forward.

A spring used to keep together the cutting edges of purchase shears.

A rod that runs from either end of a carriage's rear axle to the reach.

A leather strip that covers and strengthens a shoe's back seam.

(graphic arts)

A rope or strap that keeps the carriage of a hand printing press from moving too far forward.

(naval architecture)

A rope, wire, or cable that runs from the top of a mast to the side of a ship and slants a little aft.

(textiles)

A bar having a glass rod on its top that runs across a loom beneath the lowest motion of the warp yarns.