General
belay that
What does belay that mean?
A naval command meaning to stop or disregard the order just given.
"Belay that last instruction, we have new tasking."
Origin
US Navy; from the nautical sense of 'belay,' to secure a line.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'belay that' mean?
It's a naval command meaning stop or disregard the order that was just given.
Where does 'belay' come from?
From the nautical sense of 'belay' — to secure or make fast a line — which extended into meaning 'stop that.'
Is 'belay that' only used in the Navy?
It originates in the Navy, but its clear meaning of 'cancel that last thing' has led to occasional use beyond it.
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