Definition

A hole located at the front of a ship that allows a cable or rope to pass through.

Example

The crew secured the anchor line through the hawsehole before setting sail.

Conversation

I was reading about ship designs and came across the term hawsehole.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It's actually an opening in the bow of a ship where the cable goes through, called a hawsehole.

That’s interesting! I never knew there was a specific term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hawsehole → The word originates from Middle English 'hals' (meaning throat or neck) and 'hole' (meaning an opening). The term refers to the opening in a ship's bow through which the anchor chain passes, resembling a throat or neck opening.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'throat' ('hals') of a ship where the anchor chain passes through — that's why it's called a hawsehole.

Visually Confused Words