What is the meaning of " off-true "?
The metal was twisted. Off-true and angular like a skew-whiff crane, resisting collapse. It did not come steadily but lurched, hauling up and landward in huge jerks. After each a swaying hesitation; then another move higher, and closer.

What is the meaning of " off-true "?

Question

What is the meaning of " off-true "?
 The metal was twisted. Off-true and angular like a skew-whiff crane, resisting collapse. It did not come steadily but lurched, hauling up and landward in huge jerks. After each a swaying hesitation; then another move higher, and closer.

What is the meaning of " off-true "?

Answer

true = straight; perpendicular
off-true = not straight; not perpendicular

Answer

Anything that is " off true" is not, or is not any longer, straight and level.