billethead

noun

1
: a round piece of timber at the bow or stern of a whaleboat around which a harpoon line may be run out
2
: a scroll or ornamental carving used in place of a figurehead on a ship

Word History

Etymology

billet entry 3 + head

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Dictionary Entries Near billethead

Cite this Entry

“Billethead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/billethead. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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