ow used for
foretelling the changes in the weather, either by experience or by
instruments.

AEROMETRY. The science of measuring the air, its powers, pressure, and
properties.

AESTIVAL. Belonging to summer; the solstitial point whereby the sun's
ascent above the equator is determined.

AESTUARY. _See_ ESTUARY.

AEWUL. An Anglo-Saxon term for a twig basket for catching fish.

AFEARD. This is a very common expression for _afraid_, and though
thought low, is a true archaism of our language, as seen in Chaucer,
Shakspeare, and Ben Jonson. Major Moor terms it an old and good word.

AFER. The south-west wind of the Latins, and used by some of the early
voyagers.

AFFAIR. An indecisive engagement; a duel.

AFFECTED. An algebraic term for an equation in which the unknown
quantity rises to two or more several powers.

AFFECTIONATE FRIENDS. An official inconsistent subscription, even to
letters of reproof and imprest, used by the former Board of
Commissioners of the Navy to such officers as were not of noble families
or bore titles; the only British board that ever made so mean a
distinction, equally kind with the regrets of the clergy on burning a
heretic, or those of Walton in cutting a live fish _tenderly_. It was
probably adopted from James, Duke of York, who, when lord high-admiral,
always so subscribed his official letters. It is said that this practice
was discontinued in consequence of a distinguished naval captain--a
knight--adding, "your affectionate friend." He was thereupon desired to
"discontinue such an expression," when he replied, "I am, gentlemen, no
longer your affectionate friend, J. Phillimore."

AFFIDAVIT. A declaration upon oath, weakened in importance by its too
frequent administration at custom-houses, lazarettos, &c. Declarations
are now substituted in the case of naval officers.

AFFIRMATIVE. The positive sign or quantity in algebra; also signal flag
or pendant by which a request or order is answered.

AFFLUENT. A stream flowing directly into another stream; a more specific
term than tributary.

AFFORCIAMENT. An old term for a fortress or stronghold.

AFFREIGHTMENT. A contract for the letting the vessel, or a part of her
for freight. (_See_ CONTRACT OF AFFREIGHTMENT.)

AFLOAT. Borne up and supported by the water; buoyed clear of the ground;
also used for being on board ship.

AFORE. A Saxon word opposed to abaft, and signifying that part of the
ship which lies forward or near the st