bilboes

/ ˈbɪlbəʊz /

plural noun

1. a long iron bar with two sliding shackles, formerly used to confine the ankles of a prisoner

Word History and Origins

Origin of bilboes¹

C16: perhaps changed from Bilbao

Example Sentences

I've got the bridge right ahead, and the bilboes dead aft: I calls that good steerage, boy.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, if we do not obey their foolish rules, they nab us when we come into port again, and fine us—perhaps put us in the bilboes.

From Project Gutenberg

Whether the Spanish Armada story is true or not, bilboes were certainly much used on board ship.

From Project Gutenberg

The next year another Newe-towne man, being penitent, Henry Bright, was set in the bilboes for “swearynge.”

From Project Gutenberg

He also suffered in the bilboes for cursing, for “prophane saying dam ye come.”

From Project Gutenberg