TAB. The arming of an archer's gauntlet or glove. TABERIN. A species of shark greatly dreaded by the pearl-fishers of Ceylon. TABERNACLE. A strong trunk on the deck of river barges, forming a kind of hinge to enable them to lower the mast when going under bridges. Also, used to elongate the mast of any boat by stepping it in a tabernacle. TABLE-CLOTH. A fleecy-looking cloud which sometimes covers the 'table' or flat top of Table Mountain, at the Cape of Good Hope; it is the forerunner of a south-easter, being the condensation of moisture in the sea-air as it ascends the mountain side. TABLE-LAND. Land which is flat-topped, however it may be raised more or less above the ordinary level of the vicinity. TABLE-MONEY. An allowance to admirals and senior officers, in addition to their pay, to meet the expenses of their official guests. TABLE-SHORE. A low level shore. TABLES. _See_ ASTRONOMICAL TABLES, and NAUTICAL TABLES. TABLET. _See_ TRAPEZOID. Also, a flat coping stone placed at the top of the revêtement of the escarp, to protect the masonry from the weather. TABLING. A broad hem on the edges of a ship's sails, to strengthen them in that part which is sewed to the bolt-rope. Also, letting one piece of timber into another, similar to the _hooking_ of planks, so that they cannot be pulled asunder.
The Sailor's Word Book by William Henry Smyth edited by Edward Belcher, published originally in 1867 by Blackie & Son
