0
The term comes from the way people measured the speed that the boat was traveling at. They would have a slender rope with knots on at regular intervals, and something to create drag at the end. Then they'd throw the rope overboard and count the number of knots that were pulled out in a certain amount of time.
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
DevinI've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.
Chat with Devin
ProfessorI will give you the most educated answer.
Chat with Professor
CoachSuccess isn't just about winning—it's about vision, patience, and playing the long game.
Chat with CoachAdd your answer:
Earn +20 ptsQ: Why is ship's speed measure in 'knots'?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
Trending Questions
Why is a submarine classified as a boat and not as a ship?
Where is the marine battery housing located on a motor boat?
Will section 8 pay for a houseboat?
How heavy is a 15 hp 2 cycle 1985 Johnson outboard?
What was the name of the boat from on golden pond?
What cruise vacation does Seaborne offer?
Can you cruise around Hawaii without a passport?
What is the fuel mixture for a wards sea king 3 model GG8962B?
What is a properly fitted personal floation device?
What is an open yacht?
What can you do on both patio and yacht?
What if your boat capsized and floats away what should you do?
In Mississippi when May passengers legally ride on the bow or gunwale when the vessel is underway?
What is inside a life raft boat?
How do you fix 150 hp mercury outboard motor that is missing from to much idling?
On a boat what is the passageway?
When did the US navy start to use submarines?
What is the maximum depth of a robotic submarine?
What famous anti submarine group exploit was carried out under the leadership of Captain Dan Gallery in June 1944?
What do sailors do for fun on the ship?
Copyright ©2025 Infospace Holdings LLC, A System1 Company. All Rights Reserved. The material on this site can not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with prior written permission of Answers.