Barney's bull. A figure in marine proverb. A jewel in marine repartee.
Bells. Two bells (one forward, one aft), which are struck every half-hour in a certain manner to mark the passage of the watches.
Bitts. Strong wooden structures (built round each mast) upon which running rigging is secured.
Block. A sheaved pulley.
Boatswain. A supernumerary or idler, generally attached to the mate's watch, and holding considerable authority over the crew.
Bouilli tin. Any tin that contains, or has contained, preserved meat.
Bows. The forward extremity of a ship.
Brace-blocks. Pulleys through which the braces travel.
Braces. Ropes by which the yards are inclined forward or aft.
Bumboat pan. Soft bread sold by the bumboat man, a kind of sea costermonger who trades with ships in port.