linstock

[ lin-stok ]

noun

1. a staff with one end forked to hold a match, formerly used in firing cannon.

linstock

/ ˈlɪnˌstɒk /

noun

1. a long staff holding a lighted match, formerly used to fire a cannon

Word History and Origins

Origin of linstock¹

1565–75; earlier lyntstock < Dutch lontstock match-stick, with lint replacing lont by association with the material commonly used as tinder

Word History and Origins

Origin of linstock¹

C16: from Dutch lontstok, from lont match + stok stick

Example Sentences

A tall artillerist stood, with linstock and fuse, near the breech, waiting for the order to fire.

From Project Gutenberg

The gallant gunners, linstock in hand, watched by the guns loaded with bags of bullets and with chain shot.

From Project Gutenberg

Another suggestion connects it with a supposed derivation of “linstock,” from “lint.”

From Project Gutenberg

Wat Kilby, whose eyes had been fixed on Janet staring out of the window, uttered a low growl, and lit the linstock.

From Project Gutenberg

Linstock in hand the brawny gunner on the poop stood ready to answer them when the word should be given.

From Project Gutenberg