Definition

Verb

  1. To let a line run out.
  2. To fill or patch a seam with pitch.

Origin

(First definition) Probably earlier than the 15th century. From the Old French word, payer, of the same meaning. (Second definition) 17th century. From the Old French word, peier, of the same meaning, and earlier from the Latin word, picare, meaning pitch.

Comments

Regarding the second definition, to pay can also refer to covering in a variety of substances to waterproof them. A seam can be covered in hot pitch after it has been caulked with oakum.

A mast or yard can be covered with tar, varnish, or tallow on sailing ships since sails are frequently raised and lowered on them. Additionally, the bottom of vessels are covered in an anti-fouling coating in modern times, but previously a mixture of sulfur, rosin, and tallow was used.

References

Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

King, D., Hattendorf, J.B, & Estes, J.W. (1997). A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O’Brian’s Seafaring Tales (2nd Ed.). Owl Books.

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