Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Handspike
Hand′spikeˊ
(hănd′spīkˊ)
, Noun.
A bar or lever, generally of wood, used in a windlass or capstan, for heaving anchor, and, in modified forms, for various purposes.
Webster 1828 Edition
Handspike
HAND'SPIKE
,Noun.
Definition 2025
handspike
handspike
English

Seamen pushing the handspikes
Noun
handspike (plural handspikes)
- A bar or lever, generally of wood, used in a windlass or capstan, for heaving anchor, and, in modified forms, for various purposes.
- 1851, Herman Melville, Moby Dick, chapter 22
- “Man the capstan! Blood and thunder!—jump!”—was the next command, and the crew sprang for the handspikes.
- 1883: Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Island
- Then he rapped on the door with a bit of stick like a handspike that he carried...
- 1851, Herman Melville, Moby Dick, chapter 22