A wounded duck in rope work refers to a knot that has gone wrong or is malformed, resembling the awkward and flailing movements of a wounded duck. This term is used by rope enthusiasts to humorously describe a poorly executed knot that does not serve its intended purpose. It may be loose, uneven, or have loose ends sticking out, making it a less secure and reliable knot. The term "wounded duck" is used to highlight the importance of precision and care in tying knots for safety and efficiency in rope work.
