Loof

Webster's Dictionary of the English Language

·vi ·see Luff.

II. Loof ·noun The part of a ship's side where the planking begins to curve toward bow and stern.

III. Loof ·noun The spongelike fibers of the fruit of a cucurbitaceous plant (Luffa Aegyptiaca); called also vegetable sponge.

IV. Loof ·noun Formerly, some appurtenance of a vessel which was used in changing her course;

— probably a large paddle put over the lee bow to help bring her head nearer to the wind.