Dictionary

hounds

noun plural \ˈhan(d)z\

Definition of HOUNDS

:  the framing at the masthead of a ship that supports the heel of the topmast and the upper parts of the lower rigging
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of HOUNDS

Middle English houne, from Old Norse hūnn knob at the top of a masthead
First Known Use: 15th century
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears