What is "chafing gear"

Chafing \Chaf"ing\, n. [See Chafe, v. t.] The act of rubbing, or wearing by friction; making by rubbing.

Chafing dish, a dish or vessel for cooking on the table, or for keeping food warm, either by coals, by a lamp, or by hot water; a portable grate for coals.

Chafing gear (Naut.), any material used to protect sails, rigging, or the like, at points where they are exposed to friction.

n. (context nautical English) Any material used to protect sails, rigging, etc. at points where they are exposed to friction.

n. covering (usually rope or canvas) of a line or spar to protect it from friction