Terminology from the Age of Sail

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Search result for definition: anchor
Anchor: An object designed to grip the ground, under a body of water, to hold a ship in a selected area. In the Golden Age of Sail it was usually a cast-iron shank with two arms and two flukes, and a wooden stock perpendicular to the arms. The stock often consisted of two long pieces of oak tapered toward each end, held together with iron hoops and treenails. Around the 19th century a typical anchor became of all-iron construction, including the stock. In ancient times an anchor often consisted of a large stone with one or more holes, through which a rope was fastened. A stone anchor could weigh as little as 20 Lbs for a small anchor or 500 Lbs or more for a large anchor. Often cut from sandstone, limestone or whatever other stone was locally available. Roman lead and wood anchor shown above. Anchor building tools in the Age of Sail.
Anchor's Aweigh: Expression for when the anchor is just clear of the bottom. Was also called atrip.