slip the cable
The phrase "slip the cable" originates from nautical terminology and is used to describe urgent or sudden actions related to ship anchoring.
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Definition
C1Nautical
(technical, dated)To release the anchor line and let it go overboard, typically in a situation where there is no time to raise the anchor.
Example
- In the face of the approaching storm, the crew had to slip the cable to make a quick escape.
C2Nautical
(slang, dated)To pass away or die.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "slip the cable":
slip it toslip offslip throughslip outslip inslip knotsheathed cableslips and captureslide offslip awaylet slideblue slipslip sheetroute slipslip upbuck slip