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Word watching answers: August 21, 2006

SEABRIGHT

(b) A variety of flat-keeled fishing-boat, especially adapted for landing on beaches in heavy seas. The toponym of a small town on the coast of New Jersey. 1930: “The bronze and mahogany launch was replaced by a seabright dory twenty-two feet long by seven feet wide.”

SPRADDLE

(a) To spread or stretch (one’s legs) wide apart. 1913: “He stood with his legs spraddled over a large grass basket.”

FABIAN

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(c) Pertaining to, or after the manner of, Q. Fabius Maximus, surnamed Cunctator (“Delayer”) from the tactics which he employed against Hannibal in the Second Punic War, and which consisted of avoiding a battle, and weakening the enemy by cutting off supplies and by continual skirmishing. 1808: “In vain sage Washington/ Plays round his foes with more than Fabian skill.”

FAIRING

(c) A complimentary gift of any kind. Originally a present given at or brought from a fair. 1727: “A jewel box which Mrs Tillier desires you to accept as her fairing.”