fid

A fid in use aboard the USS John C. Stennis.

Meanings

Noun

  • A pointed tool without any sharp edges, used in weaving or knotwork to tighten and form up weaves or complex knots; used in sailing ships to open the strands of a rope before splicing. Compare marlinespike.
  • A square bar of wood or iron, with a shoulder at one end, to support the weight of the topmast (on a ship).
  • A plug of oakum for the vent of a gun.
  • A small thick piece of anything.
  • A wooden or metal bar or pin, used to support or steady anything.
  • The penis.

Verb

  • To support a topmast using a fid.

Origin

  • Origin Unknown.

Modern English dictionary

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