Definition:

A nautical term referring to a loop or coil of rope, in shibari it refers to a single piece or length of rope.

Notes

Natural fiber ropes such as jute or hemp should not be stored in Hanks or coils as the can develop what is called “memory” where they will retain the coiled shape.

The word "hank" comes from the Old Norse word hönk, which means "coil, skein, clasp". It is related to the Old English word hangian, which means "to hang". The word was first used in the 14th century. "Hank" has multiple definitions, including:

• A loop, coil, or skein of something flexible, like rope, wool, or yarn
• A nautical ring-like fitting that can be opened to attach a sail's luff to a stay
• A unit of measurement for cloth or yarn, such as 560 yards of worsted yarn or 840 yards of cotton
• In the meat industry, a hank is a unit of measurement for sheep, lamb, or hog sausage casings, and is equal to 100 yards