more searches
7 wordies list

davit

(n): a crane-like device (usually one of a pair) for suspending or lowering equipment (as a lifeboat)
( more... )
Leave a comment, citation, or private note
about 1 year ago trivet said: anchor hoister

(a) A spar formerly used on board of ships, as a crane to hoist the flukes of the anchor to the top of the bow, without injuring the sides of the ship; -- called also the fish davit.

(b) pl. Curved arms of timber or iron, projecting over a ship's side of stern, having tackle to raise or lower a boat, swing it in on deck, rig it out for lowering, etc.; -- called also boat davits.

(Cf. F. davier forceps, cooper's instrument, G. david davit; all probably from the proper name David.)

- Webster 1913

Register or login to leave a comment.
first listed by:
mike (63 words)
appears in these lists: