bights

Bights are terms used in two distinct domains: geography and ropework. In geography, a bight is a broad bend or curvature in a coastline or river, forming a large, open indentation. This feature often creates a wide, shallow coastal area rather than a narrow inlet. The designation emphasizes the curvature of the coast or shoreline rather than the size of the body of water itself. Not all coastal indentations are called bights; the term is typically reserved for sizable, gently curved segments. Well-known examples include the Great Australian Bight and the Bight of Benin.

In nautical and ropework usage, a bight refers to a length or slack portion of rope between two ends or knots. It can be used to form a loop or to pass the rope around an object without tying a knot. A bight is a practical unit in knot-tying and rigging, enabling temporary attachment, securing, or looping of a line. Phrases such as “taking a bight” describe using a portion of rope to achieve a desired loop or configuration.

Summary: the word bight describes either a geographic curve in a coastline or river that creates a large indentation, or a slack segment of rope suitable for forming loops or hitches. The meanings are distinct but share a common idea of a curved or supple portion, whether in landforms or in rope. See also bay, gulf, inlet, and basic knotting terminology.