dogvane

American  

[dawg-veyn, dog-] / ˈdɔgˌveɪn, ˈdɒg- /

noun

Nautical.

1. a small vane that shows the direction of the wind, mounted in a position visible to a helmsperson.

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dogvane British  

/ ˈdɒɡˌveɪn /

noun

1. Also called: telltale.  nautical a light windvane consisting of a feather or a piece of cloth or yarn mounted on the side of a vessel

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Etymology

Origin of dogvane

First recorded in 1760–70; dog + vane

Example Sentences

The captain of this watch was one William Dogvane, a celebrated sailor, and as shifty a salt—so it was said—as ever trod a plank.

From Project Gutenberg

To begin with, there was Pepper, the cook of the Starboard watch, a great admirer, and supporter, of Captain Dogvane's.

From Project Gutenberg

As the Port watch were not on deck at the time of which we are speaking, it is not necessary to say much about the men that composed it, further than to mention that Bob Mainstay was the captain, and a most experienced seaman, quite equal, many thought, to old Bill Dogvane, and very much more certain, though he had not Bill's command of language.

From Project Gutenberg

Random Jack as he was called, delighted annoying old Dogvane, in fact, he buzzed about the whole of the Starboard watch like a mosquito, and was the merriest, and most cheery little devil that ever put on a sailor's jacket.

From Project Gutenberg

Though Captain William Dogvane swore he was essentially a man of peace, his life proved him to be a man of war, and he displayed a marvellous aptitude for getting into rows and then swearing that they were none of his making.

From Project Gutenberg