Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Davit

Dav′it

,
Noun.
[Cf. F.
davier
forceps, davit, cooper’s instrument, G.
david
davit; all probably from the proper name
David
.]
(Naut.)
(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
.
Totten.

Webster 1828 Edition


Davit

DAV'IT

,
Noun.
A beam 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; an operation called fishing the anchor.
DAW, v.i. To dawn.
DAW'DLE, v.i. To waste time; to trifle.
DAW'DLER, n. A trifler.
DAWK, v.t. To cut or mark with an incision.
DAWN, v.i.