[1] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

davit \dav"it\, n. cf. f. davier forceps, davit, cooper's
   instrument, g. david davit; all probably from the proper name
   david. naut.
   a a spar formerly used on board of ships, as a crane to
       hoist the flukes of the anchor to the top of the bow,
       without injuring the sides of the ship; -- called also
       the fish davit.
   b pl. curved arms of timber or iron, projecting over a
       ship's side of stern, having tackle to raise or lower a
       boat, swing it in on deck, rig it out for lowering, etc.;
       -- called also boat davits. --totten.
       1913 webster
see also:
fish davit boat davits 

[2] : WordNet (r) 2.0

davit
     n : a crane-like device usually one of a pair for suspending
         or lowering equipment as a lifeboat

Davit >> D Words
Davit, definition of term: Davit
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