Definition

Noun

  • The inboard end of a line.

Origin

Probably earlier than the 15th century.

Comments

Usually refers to the end of a mooring line or the anchor cable or chain. The earlier term was the bitters-end. The bitter part being the part actually on the bitts. Thus, when a line, cable, or chain is at the bitter end, then no more remains to be payed out.

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.