DICTIONARY OF

Superior Transit 340 Swamp
Superior Transit. That passage across the meridian, of a circum-polar body, at which it
attains its greater altitude.
Super-Pressure Boiler. Steam boiler working at pressure exceeding 650 Ib. per square inch.
Superstructure. Loosely applied to permanent erections above upper deck. For load-line
purposes, is a decked structure above the freeboard deck and extending from side to side of
the vessel. Raised quarter deck is a superstructure.
Supporters. Strong knees immediately beneath catheads of wooden vessels.
Surf. Broken and tumultuous sea caused by waves breaking on a I lee shore,
Surface Condenser. Condenser in which exhaust steam is condensed to water by coming
into contact with outer surfaces of numerous small pipes through which cold sea water is
pumped.
Surf Boat. Craft especially designed for working in surf. Is usually high at ends, broadbeamed,
and steered with an oar- to which it is very responsive,
Surge. Name given to the so-called 'tidal wave', which is not due to tidal forces.
Investigation of its behaviour is still proceeding, but it is accepted that it may arise from
meteorological causes, or from seismic disturbances. It may travel hundreds of miles an
hour. 2. To allow a rope to render or run out while being hauled on a drum or capstan. 3. To
fail to grip a drum or 1 capstan when heaving. 4. The swell of a drum or capstan. 5. Change
of barometric pressure additional to those due to movements of depressions or anticyclones.
Survey. To examine and inspect visually. 2. Visual examination or inspection. 3. Periodical
examination of a vessel, her fittings, machinery, accommodation, etc. 4. Particular, but
casual, inspection of stowage, hatches, cargo, etc. 5. To ascertain the depths, nature, and
contours of the sea-bed and the heights, nature, and contours of the adjacent land.
Surveyor. One who examines and surveys for the purpose of ascertaining and reporting
condition, state, quantity, quality, strength, etc., relative to standard requirements.
Swab. Seaman's mop for drying decks. Made of old rope unlaid and seized on the bight;
about four feet in length. Sometimes made smaller and seized to a wooden handle for putting
highly-alkaline solutions on deck for cleansing purposes.
Swabber. One who swabs a deck. Anciently, an inferior officer who was responsible for the
cleanliness of the decks.
Swab Hitch. Name often given to a single sheet bend.
Swallow. That opening, in a block, through which the rope is rove.
Swallow Tail. Flag or pendant having a V-shaped indentation in the fly.
Swallow the Anchor. To leave the sea and settle ashore.
Swamp. To overwhelm with water; not necessarily to sink.