Ratlines \Rat"lines\, Ratlins \Rat"lins\ (r[a^]t"l[i^]nz), n.
pl. [Of uncertain origin.] (Naut.)
The small transverse ropes attached to the shrouds and
forming the steps of a rope ladder. [Written also {ratlings},
and {rattlings}.] --Totten.
[1913 Webster]