hawsehole
Noun: - The hole in the hull of a ship through which an anchor cable (or hawser) passes: A hawsehole is a specifically designed opening, typically lined with metal (a hawsepipe), that allows the anchor chain or rope to run from the windlass on deck out to the anchor in the water without damaging the ship's structure.
The term is used exclusively in nautical contexts to describe a specific part of a ship's equipment and structure. - The thick anchor chain rattled loudly as it passed through the hawsehole. - Before setting sail, the crew checked the hawsehole for any blockages or damage. - Seawater sprayed through the hawsehole during the storm.
- "To come in through the hawsehole": An idiom describing someone who has risen from the lowest ranks (e.g., a common sailor) to a position of authority, as opposed to entering as an officer. It implies a career path based on practical experience rather than formal training or privilege.
- The old captain was respected because he had come in through the hawsehole and knew every job on the ship.
- Hawsepipe (n): The metal pipe or tube lining the hawsehole, providing a smooth passage for the cable.
- Hawse (n): The part of a ship's bows containing the hawseholes. Can also refer generally to the arrangement of anchor cables.
- Hawser (n): A thick rope or cable used for mooring or towing a ship, which historically would pass through a hawsehole.
- Anchor hole: A less technical, descriptive synonym.
- Cable hole: Another descriptive term.
(Note: As a specific nautical noun, "hawsehole" does not form standard phrasal verbs. The related phrases are fixed nautical terms.) - "Foul the hawse": A situation where the anchor cables cross each other, creating a tangle at the bow. - "Clear hawse": To untangle crossed anchor cables.
- the hole that an anchor rope passes through