rough-tree rail

noun

: the rail at the top of a ship's main bulwarks and below the topgallant bulwarks

Word History

Etymology

rough-tree small timber used as a rail (perhaps alteration of rooftree) + rail

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rough-tree rail was in 1780

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Dictionary Entries Near rough-tree rail

Cite this Entry

“Rough-tree rail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rough-tree%20rail. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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