: the portion of a log line which is run out to allow the chip to get clear of the stern eddies before the reckoning is begun.

What does stray away mean?

a. To move away from a group, deviate from a course, or escape from established limits: strayed away from the tour group to look at some sculptures. b. To move without a destination or purpose; wander: cows that strayed across the road toward the river. See Synonyms at wander.

What does an line mean?

a continuous extent of length, straight or curved, without breadth or thickness; the trace of a moving point. something arranged along a line, especially a straight line; a row or series: a line of trees. a number of persons standing one behind the other and waiting their turns at or for something; queue.