thumbstall

[ thuhm-stawl ]

noun

1. a protective sheath of rubber, leather, or the like for the thumb.

thumbstall

/ ˈθʌmˌstɔːl /

noun

1. a protective sheathlike cover for the thumb

Word History and Origins

Origin of thumbstall¹

First recorded in 1580–90; thumb + stall ¹

Example Sentences

Captains of guns to provide themselves with percussion-primers, thumbstalls, and priming-wire, and to see that the men of their respective parts of the gun's crew discharge their several duties promptly and carefully.

From Project Gutenberg

"I thank ye," she said heartily, and pressing down the thumbstall of the latch, went in.

From Project Gutenberg

The thumbstall has been made of various materials, but its use is somewhat inconvenient for the Gun Captain, and he cannot feel that the vent is stopped.

From Project Gutenberg