LYING TO, or Lying-by, the situation of a ship, when
she is retarded in her course, by arranging the sails in
such a manner as to counteract each other with nearly
an equal effort, and render the ship almost immovable,
with respect to her progressive motion, or headway.
A ship is usually brought-to by the main, and fore top
sails, one of which is laid aback, whilst the other is full;
so that the latter pushes the ship forward, whilst the
former resists this impulse, by forcing her stern. This
is particularly practised in a general engagement, when
hostile fleets are drawn up in two lines of battle oppo-
site each other. It is also used to wait for some other
ship, either approaching or expected; or to avoid pur-
suing a dangerous course, especially in dark or foggy
weather.