A hitch in sailing is a type of knot used to secure a rope (line) to another object, such as a post, rail, ring, or spar. Unlike standard knots, hitches rely on the object they are tied around to maintain their structure and will fall apart if the object is removed.

Key Characteristics and Examples
Purpose: Primarily used for mooring, docking, or securing fenders.

Key Types:
Clove Hitch: A quick, temporary knot for securing lines to vertical posts or rails.

Cleat Hitch: The standard method for securing a line to a deck cleat.

Rolling Hitch: Used to attach a line to a spar or another rope, designed to hold under tension.

Round Turn and Two Half Hitches: A very secure, reliable knot for mooring.

Distinction: A hitch differs from a "bend," which joins two ropes together, although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably.

Hitches are designed to be secure under load yet easy to untie once the tension is removed.