What is referred to as the shank on an anchor?

The shank of an anchor is best described as the shaft or handle that extends from the head of the anchor down to the flukes. This part plays a crucial role in the functioning of the anchor, as it connects the flukes (which dig into the seabed) to the anchor's stock and allows for the anchor to be lifted and retrieved effectively.

This explanation helps clarify the purpose of the shank and its function in anchoring systems. Other aspects of an anchor, like the part that buries into the sea or the rope connected to it, serve different purposes and components of the anchoring system but do not define what the shank is.