luff

 
Pronunciation: /lʌf/
Sailing

noun

  • the edge of a fore-and-aft sail next to the mast or stay: if your luff is flapping, pull the sail towards you to fill it with wind

verb

[with object]
  • steer (a yacht) nearer the wind: I came aft and luffed her for the open sea
  • obstruct (an opponent in yacht racing) by sailing closer to the wind: he can luff you, but must leave you room to get clear

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French lof, probably from Low German