noun 1.Nautical.a.the forward edge of the stem of a vessel, dividing the
water as the vessel advances.
b.a vertical timber construction
set forward of and following the stem of a wooden vessel below the
water line, usually curving forward above the
water line to support a beak-head or figurehead.
2.Civil Engineering. a sharply pointed upstream face of a bridge pier, for resisting the effects of moving water or ice.