FOOT. The lower end of a mast or sail. Also, the general name of infantry soldiers. Also, the measure of 12 inches, or one-sixth of a fathom.—To foot. To push with the feet; as, "foot the top-sail out clear of the top-rim."
FOOT-BANK. Synonymous with [banquette] (which see).
FOOT-BOARD. The same as gang-board, but not so sailor-like. (See [Stretchers].)
FOOT-BOAT. A west-country term for a boat used solely to convey foot passengers.
FOOT-CLUE of a Hammock. See [Hammock].
FOOT-HOOKS. Synonymous with futtocks.
FOOTING. A fine paid by a youngster or landsman on first mounting the top. Also, a slight payment from new comers on crossing the line, passing through the Straits of Gibraltar, entering the Arctic Seas, &c.
FOOT IT IN. An order to stow the bunt of a sail snugly in furling, executed by the bunt-men dancing it in, holding on by the topsail-tye. Frequently when a bunt-jigger has parted men have fallen on deck.
FOOT-RAILS. Narrow mouldings raised on a vessel's stern.
FOOT-ROPE. The rope to which the lower edge of a sail is sewed. (See [Bolt-rope].)