FRESHEN THE NIP, To. To veer a small portion of cable through the hawse-hole, or heave a little in, in order to let another part of it bear the stress and friction. A common term with tipplers, especially after taking the meridian observation.
FRESHEN WAY. When the ship feels the increasing influence of a breeze. Also, when a man quickens his pace.
FRESHES. Imply the impetuosity of an ebb tide, increased by heavy rains, and flowing out into the sea, which it often discolours to a considerable distance from the shore, as with the Nile, the Congo, the Mississippi, the Indus, the Ganges, the Rhone, Surinam, &c.
FRESHET. A word long used for pools or ponds, when swollen after rain or temporary inundations. It is also applied to a pond supplied by a spring.
FRESH GALE. A more powerful wind than a [fresh breeze] (which see).
FRESH GRUB. The refreshments obtained in harbour.
FRESH HAND AT THE BELLOWS. Said when a gale freshens suddenly.
FRESH SHOT. A river swollen by rain or tributaries; it also signifies the falling down of any great river into the sea, by which fresh water is often to be found on the surface a good way from the mouth of the river.
FRESH SPELL. Men coming to relieve a gang at work.
FRESH WATER. Water fit to drink, in opposition to sea or salt water; now frequently obtained at sea by distillation. (See [Iceberg].)