CLASP-HOOK. An iron clasp, in two parts, moving upon the same pivot, and overlapping one another. Used for bending chain-sheets to the clues of sails, jib-halliards, &c. (See [Spar-hook].)
CLASS. Order or rank; specially relating to dockyard men.
CLASSIFICATION OF SHIPS. A register made of vessels according to the report rendered in by special surveyors. (See [Navy] and [Lloyd's Register].)
CLAW, or Claw off, To. To beat, or turn to windward from a lee-shore, so as to be at sufficient distance from it to avoid shipwreck. It is generally used when getting to windward is difficult.
CLAYMORE. Anciently a two-handed sword of the Highlanders, but latterly applied to their basket-hilted sword.
CLEACHING NET. A hand-net with a hoop and bar, used by fishermen on the banks of the Severn.
CLEAN. Free from danger, as clean coast, clean harbour; in general parlance means quite, entirely. So Shakspeare represents Ægeon
"Roaming clean through the bounds of Asia."
Also, applied to a ship's hull with a fine run fore and aft.—Clean entrance, clean run.—To clean a ship's bottom. (See [Breaming] and [Hog].)
CLEAN BILL. (See [Bill of Health].) When all are in health.