/hangk/ , n.
1. a skein, as of thread or yarn.
2. a definite length of thread or yarn: A hank of cotton yarn measures 840 yards.
3. a coil, knot, or loop: a hank of hair.
4. Naut. a ring, link, or shackle for securing the luff of a staysail or jib to its stay or the luff or head of a gaff sail to the mast or gaff.
v.t.
5. Naut. to fasten (a sail) by means of hanks.
[ 1175-1225; ME honk hank, coil, skein, clasp; akin to HANG ]