Gam
a visit between two ships' crews
Gale
a very strong wind
Squall
a sudden violent gust of wind or a localized storm, especially one bringing rain, snow, or sleet
Spermacet
a white waxy substance produced by the sperm whale, formerly used in candles and ointments. It is present in a rounded organ in the head, where it focuses acoustic signals and aids in the control of buoyancy.
Hull
the main body of a ship or other vessel, including the bottom, sides, and deck but not the masts, superstructure, rigging, engines, and other fittings
Stern
the rearmost part of a ship or boat
Helm
a tiller or wheel and any associated equipment for steering a ship or boat
Corpulence
the state of being very fat; obesity
Casting lots
a form of sortition in which an outcome is determined by means that normally would be considered random, such as the rolling of dice, but are sometimes believed to reveal the will of God, or other supernatural entities.
Ambergris
a waxlike substance that originates as a secretion in the intestines of the sperm whale, found floating in tropical seas and used in perfume manufacture
Hypernatremia
a condition involving excessive amounts of sodium in the body that can bring on convulsions
Pollard
1. to cut off the top and branches of (a tree) to encourage new growth at the top
2. an animal, e.g., a sheep or deer, which has lost its horns or cast its antlers
Ghostwriter
a person whose job it is to write material for someone else who is the named author.
Disintegration
the process of losing cohesion or strength
Confabulate
fabricate imaginary experiences as compensation for loss of memory
Mast
a tall upright post, spar, or other structure on a ship or boat, in sailing vessels generally carrying a sail or sails
Leeward
on or toward the side sheltered from the wind or toward which the wind is blowing; downwind
Topgallant
the section of a square-rigged sailing ship's mast immediately above the topmast
Cocksure
presumptuously or arrogantly confident
Provision
supplies of food, drink, or equipment, especially for a journey
