Swift"er (?), n. [Cf. Swivel.] Naut. (a)
A rope used to retain the bars of the capstan in their sockets while men are turning it.
(b)
A rope used to encircle a boat longitudinally, to strengthen and defend her sides.
(c)
The forward shroud of a lower mast.
© Webster 1913.
Swift"er, v. t. Naut.
To tighten, as slack standing rigging, by bringing the opposite shrouds nearer.
© Webster 1913.