Definition

Noun

  • A foghorn on a sailing ship.

Origin

Late 19th century.

Comments

This might be related to the fact that some types of foghorns are large wooden boxes with hand cranks fitted to them which sound like a foghorn when turned. Sometimes called a “Norwegian pattern” foghorn.

References

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

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