Definition of the word jib

The origin of the word "jib" can be traced back to the 16th century, when it referred to the curved piece of wood or canvas at the front of a ship's mast, known as the bowsprit. The term "jib" is believed to have come from the Middle English "gybbe," meaning a rough fabric or sail, which in turn is derived from the Old French "gibe," meaning a tackle or gantry used for lifting goods. It's possible that the word "jib" was adapted from "gybbe" due to the rough, folded appearance of the jib when it's not fully set. Today, the word "jib" is still commonly used in nautical terminology to describe a type of triangular sail that's set at the front of the mast.