cathead

noun

cat·​head ˈkat-ˌhed How to pronounce cathead (audio)
: a projecting piece of timber or iron near the bow of a ship to which the anchor is hoisted and secured

Word History

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cathead was in 1626

Rhymes for cathead

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Browse Nearby Words

Cathayan
cathead
cathead line
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Cite this Entry

“Cathead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cathead. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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