The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Halyard \Hal"yard\ (h[a^]l"y[~e]rd), n. [Hale, v. t. + yard.]
   (Naut.)
   A rope or tackle for hoisting or lowering yards, sails,
   flags, etc. [Written also halliard, haulyard.]
   [1913 Webster]