Scuppers are the small holes at the bottom of the railing.

Definition

Noun

  • Hole(s) that acts as a drain for the weather decks.

Origins

15th century Middle English from Old French, escopier, meaning to bail or empty.

Comments

Also spelled skupper. Obviously shipping lots of water over the weather deck is unwanted, hence why scuppers exist. Essentially they are analogous to the drain pipes on a building.

References

Angelucci, E. & Cucari, A. (1975). Ships. Milan, IT: Arnoldo Mondadori Editore.

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic, CT: Mystic Seaport Museum.

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