In maritime contexts, the waist refers to the central part of a ship’s upper deck, particularly in older sailing ships. It is the area between the quarterdeck and the forecastle. The significance of the waist includes:

Accessibility: It typically houses elements crucial for the operation of the ship, such as capstans or sometimes the helm, depending on the ship’s design.
Social and Functional Space: On historical vessels, the waist could be a gathering space for the crew during times of rest.

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