Davit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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davit
[ˈdævɪt ]
Definition
nautical equipment
A davit is a type of beam which is used to raise and lower a lifeboat or other cargo. It is often utilized on ships and boats for the safe and efficient handling of smaller vessels or equipment. Davits can come in various forms and can be manually operated or hydraulically powered. They are critical for maritime safety, ensuring that lifesaving equipment can be swiftly deployed in emergencies.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The crew used the davit to lower the lifeboat into the water.
- Maintenance on the davits was required to ensure their functionality.
- Each ship must have properly functioning davits as part of safety regulations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Engineering
- Davits are often found on ships and are used to lower lifeboats into the water during emergencies.
- Modern davits can be powered or manual, demonstrating advancements in marine engineering.
- They play a critical role in safety, as proper use of davits can save lives during maritime accidents.
Maritime Culture
- In maritime lore, the reliability of davits symbolizes safety and preparedness on the sea.
- Certain naval vessels had unique davit designs, reflecting craftsmanship and technology specific to different eras.
- Some famous maritime disasters highlighted the importance of properly functioning davits, leading to stricter safety regulations.
Historical Significance
- The invention of the davit can be traced back to ancient shipbuilding practices, showing our historical reliance on water transportation.
- Davits were used extensively by naval fleets during significant historical events, including wars, showcasing their functionality under duress.
- They have evolved over centuries, adapting to the needs of larger and more complex vessels that cruise our oceans today.
Safety Protocols
- Regular inspections of davits are mandated by maritime laws to ensure they are safe for use during emergencies.
- Training on how to properly use davits is a standard requirement for crew members on many ships around the world.
- Innovations in materials used for davits have enhanced their durability and resistance to corrosion from saltwater.
Origin of 'davit'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'davit' is believed to come from the Middle English term 'davit', which originally referred to a hoisting device.
- Its roots in Old French and Latin relate to 'davit' meaning 'to hold' or 'to secure'.
- The term has been in use since at least the 15th century, showing its long-standing importance in maritime practices.
The word 'davit' is derived from Middle English 'davit', which itself comes from the Anglo-French word 'davit', probably a diminutive of 'dave', meaning 'to support'. This term has maritime roots, appearing in nautical contexts from the late 15th century. As ships evolved, the use of davits became essential for safely launching and retrieving lifeboats, especially during emergencies. The design has continued to adapt over the years, leading to more sophisticated and efficient mechanisms for handling marine equipment. Its importance in maritime safety is well recognized, with regulations often governing the specifications and maintenance of davits on vessels.