HAIR-BRACKET. The moulding at the back of the figure-head.
HAIR-TRIGGER. A trigger to a gun-lock, so delicately adjusted that the slightest touch will discharge the piece.
HAKE. An old term for a hand-gun. Also, the fish Gadus merluccius, a well-known gregarious and voracious fish of the cod family, often termed sea-pike.
HAKE'S TEETH. A phrase applied to some part of the deep soundings in the British Channel; but it is a distinct shell-fish, being the Dentalium, the presence of which is a valuable guide to the Channel pilot in foggy weather.
HALBAZ. See [Kalbaz].
HALBERT. A sort of spear formerly carried by sergeants of infantry, that they, standing in the ranks behind the officers or the colours, should afford additional defence at those important points.
HALCYON PISCATOR, or King-fisher. This beautiful bird's floating nest was fabled to calm the winds and seas while the bird sat. This occurring in winter gave rise to the expression "halcyon days."
HALE. An old word for [haul] (which see).
HALF AN EYE, Seeing with. Discerning instantly and clearly.
HALF-BEAMS. Short timbers, from the side to the hatchways, to support the deck where there is no framing. (See [Fork-beams].)