释义 |
ˈfathoming, vbl. n. [f. fathom v. + -ing1.] 1. The action of encircling with the arms.
c1440Promp. Parv. 145 Fademynge, ulnacio. 1630Donne Serm. lxxii. 736 A net is a large thing past thy Fadoming if thou cast it from thee, but if thou draw it to thee, it will lie upon thy arme. 2. The action or process of ascertaining the depth (of the sea, etc.).
1642Rogers Naaman 181 The fadoming of so bottomelesse depth. 1727Philip Quarll 79 Very expert in the Art of Fathoming. b. attrib., as fathoming-line.
a1800Cowper Comm. Milton's P.L. ii. 934 A fathoming-line..for the purpose of sounding an abyss. 1874H. R. Reynolds John Bapt. vi. §1. 364 The prophet here plunged his fathoming line into a deep ocean. |