TOP-LINING. A lining on the after-part of sails, to prevent their chafing against the top-rim. Also, a platform of thin board nailed upon the upper part of the cross-trees on a vessel's top.
TOP-MAST. The second division of a mast above the deck. (See [Mast].)
TOP-MAUL. A large hammer used to start the top-mast fid, and to beat down the top, when setting up topmast-rigging.
TOP-MEN. Selected smart seamen stationed in the several tops, to attend the taking in or setting of the upper sails.
TOP-NETTINGS. See [Top].
TOPPING. Pretentious; as, topping the officer; also, fine, gallant, &c.
TOPPING-LIFTS. Those lifts which support a spar, davit, &c.
TOP-RAIL. A rail supported on stanchions across the after-part of each of a ship's tops.
TOP-RIDERS. See [Upper Futtock-riders].
TOP RIM OR BRIM. The circular sweep of the fore part of a vessel's top, and covering in the ends of the cross-trees and trestle-trees, to prevent their chafing the top-sail.