Blackwall hitch

knot

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The Blackwall hitch is a knot used to secure a rope to a hook. It was first documented in 1801 and is named after the Blackwall shipyard in London, England.1

A knot is generally defined as the interlacement of rope or cord used to bind objects together. Knots have been used since ancient times for various purposes, from primitive tools to sophisticated sailing rigging. The primary requirements for a good knot are that it does not slip and is easy to tie and untie. The Blackwall hitch is one of many types of knots, including hitches, which are used to attach a rope to an object.2

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knot
A Blackwall hitch is used to fasten a rope to a hook. It is made by doubling a rope near its end to form a loop and putting the shank of the hook through the loop so that the loop may be jammed between the rope’s…
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A Blackwall hitch is used to fasten a rope to a hook. It is made by doubling a rope near its end to form a loop and putting the shank of the hook through the loop so that the loop may be jammed between the rope’s…
Read More