AVENUE. The inlet into a port.
AVERAGE. Whether general or particular, is a term of ambiguous construction, meaning the damage incurred for the safety of the ship and cargo; the contribution made by the owners in general, apportioned to their respective investments, to repair any particular loss or expense sustained; and a small duty paid to the master for his care of the whole. Goods thrown overboard for the purpose of lightening the ship, are so thrown for the good of all, and the loss thus sustained must be made up by a general average or contribution from all the parties interested. (See [General Average].)
AVERAGE-ADJUSTER. A qualified person engaged in making statements to show the proper application of loss, damage, or expenses in consequence of the accidents of a sea adventure.
AVERAGE-AGREEMENT. A written document signed by the consignees of a cargo, binding themselves to pay a certain proportion of general average that may from accident arise against them.
AVERAGE-STATER. See [Average-adjuster].
AVIST. A west-country term for "a fishing."
AVVISO. An Italian advice-boat. [Aviso, Sp.] Despatch-boat or tender.
AWAFT, or Awheft. The displaying of a stopped flag. (See [Wheft].)
AWAIT. Ambush; cutting off vessels by means of boats hidden in coves which they must pass in their course.
AWARD. A judgment, in maritime cases, by arbitration; and the decision or sentence of a court-martial.