English Reference

Word

rigging

Phoneticsrig·ging, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈɹɪɡɪŋ/

UK/ɹˈɪɡɪŋ/

Definitions

01ship equipment

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Science Technical

n. the ropes, chains, and equipment that support a ship's masts and control the sails.

n. the collective system of ropes, cables, and chains used to support a sailing vessel's masts and control its sails.

“The sailors worked quickly to repair the rigging before the storm arrived.”

“The captain ordered a full inspection of the standing rigging to ensure the masts could withstand the predicted gale-force winds.”

Usage

Often categorized into 'standing rigging' (fixed supports) and 'running rigging' (adjustable ropes for sails).

Synonyms

02theatre or construction equipment

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Theater Technical

n. the ropes and metal structures used to hang lights in a theatre or move heavy things on a building site.

n. the equipment and structures used to support, hang, or move heavy loads in construction, film, or theatrical environments.

“The crew spent all night setting up the rigging for the concert's light show.”

“Safety protocols require that all overhead rigging in the studio be inspected by a certified engineer before the actors begin rehearsals.”

Real-World Examples

“The authorities denied the claims of vote rigging and in preliminary statements observers described election day as largely peaceful and orderly.”
BBC News 17 Aug 2026
“The rigging and wires were erased during post-production.”
Ars Technica 28 Aug 2026
“Traditionally used to damage a ship’s rigging and destroy masts, in this instance it was used by the patriots as an antipersonnel weapon, with devastating effect.”
The Conversation 28 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Middle English riggyng, ryggyng, riggynge, equivalent to rig + -ing.

From rig + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

NOUN

rigging(C2)

Domain

Nautical

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Frequent
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

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English Reference