1. A hole in the bow of a ship through which an anchor cable passes.
Usage: nautical; also spelled 'hawse hole' or 'hawse-hole'

Examples

• The anchor chain ran through the hawsehole at the ship's bow.
• Sailors inspected the hawsehole to ensure the cable moved freely.
• The hawsehole was reinforced with metal to withstand the strain of the anchor.
• Water occasionally splashed through the hawsehole during rough seas.
• The ship's carpenter sealed the hawsehole after the anchor was secured.