noun
- Plural of cathead; a timber or metal beam projecting from the bow of a ship, used to hoist and secure the anchor.
Usage: nautical; technical
Examples
- The ship's catheads were reinforced to handle the weight of the heavy anchor.
- Sailors worked to secure the cable around the catheads during the storm.
- The catheads on the old vessel showed signs of rust and wear.
- Modern ships still use catheads, though their design has evolved over centuries.