marlinespike

American  

[mahr-lin-spahyk] / ˈmɑr lɪnˌspaɪk /

Also marlinspike,

noun

Nautical.

1. a pointed iron implement used in separating the strands of rope in splicing, marling, etc.

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marlinespike British  

/ ˈmɑːlɪnˌspaɪk, ˈmɑːlɪŋˌspaɪk /

noun

1. nautical a pointed metal tool used as a fid, spike, and for various other purposes

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Etymology

Origin of marlinespike

1620–30; originally marling spike. See marl ², -ing ¹, spike ¹

Example Sentences

In a nod to Ballard’s maritime industry, the store will carry some nautical items, including canvas ice totes and marlinespikes, tools used to separate the strands of a rope.

From Seattle Times

Meanwhile I grew so weary of standing about that I was quite grateful when Chips ordered me to fetch him a marlinespike.

From Project Gutenberg

He was awakened to speech by the striking of the ship's bell forward when the lookout lifted a marlinespike from the belfry and chimed two short strokes, repeated by two more.

From Project Gutenberg

“Put your marlinespike against the pill and crack the coating on it,” urged Wiley.

From Project Gutenberg

Its maker named it a knife; as a matter of fact, the knife part was worthless; but snugly and cunningly fitted into the stout buckhorn handle was a serviceable file, a hacksaw, and a marlinespike.

From Project Gutenberg