Jere Lull wrote:

Once in a while, we'll tie a dock line to the rode with a rolling hitch,
cleat at a mid or stern cleat, then ease the rode out so the boat
"cocks" to one side. At about 30 degrees to the wind, the boat wanders
very little. Handy for keeping the sun in the right place. Also handy in
those times when wind and waves are not aligned.

Referred to as pointing ship. This technique was used to bring guns to
bear when at anchor and there was an offshore or onshore wind. It can
also be done using spankers or mizzens on full rigged ships.

Very neat!