In sailing, veer refers to a wind shift that moves in a clockwise direction (e.g., shifting from North to Northeast, or South to West). Often termed "wind clocking," a veering wind is the opposite of a backing wind. It can also describe the action of paying out or slacking off an anchor cable or rope.

Key Aspects of Veering:
Wind Direction: The wind shifts clockwise, such as changing from Southwest to West.

Context: Used by sailors and meteorologists in both hemispheres to describe the clockwise rotation.

Effect on Sailing: A veering wind can act as a lift (allowing a closer course to the destination) or a header (forcing the boat away from the destination) depending on the tack.

Alternative Definition: It also means to slacken, ease, or let out a rope, particularly an anchor cable, often in a controlled manner.