jib Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun any triangular fore-and-aft sail (set forward of the foremast)
  2. verb refuse to comply
    resist; baulk; balk.
  3. verb shift from one side of the ship to the other
    gybe; jibe; change course.
    • The sail jibbed wildly

WordNet

Jib noun
Etymology
Named from its shifting from side to side. See Jib, v. i.., Jibe.
Definitions
  1. (Naut.) A triangular sail set upon a stay or halyard extending from the foremast or fore-topmast to the bowsprit or the jib boom. Large vessels often carry several jibe; as, inner jib; outer jib; flying jib; etc.
  2. (Mach.) The projecting arm of a crane, from which the load is suspended. Sir W. Scott.
Jib intransitive verb
Etymology
Connected with jibe; cf. OF. giber to shake.
Definitions
  1. To move restively backward or sidewise, -- said of a horse; to balk. Written also jibb. Eng.

Webster 1913