What are the origins of the word? Ratline is a nautical term, referring to small lengths of horizontal cord that run between the shrouds, several strong ropes that affix the top of a mast to the vessel's sides. The ratlines serve as crude ladder rungs, allowing the crew to scale the mast when necessary.

What does a ratline mean?

: any of the small transverse ropes attached to the shrouds of a ship so as to form the steps of a rope ladder —usually used in plural.

What is a ratline in the military?

ratline. An organized effort for moving personnel and/or material by clandestine means across a denied area or border. ( US DoD)