hawse

 
Pronunciation: /hɔːz/

noun

  • the part of a ship’s bows through which the anchor cables pass.
  • the space between the head of an anchored vessel and the anchors.

Phrases

foul hawse

a situation in which an anchored ship’s port and starboard cables are crossed.

Origin:

late Middle English halse, probably from Old Norse háls 'neck, ship's bow'