Sc. and north. dial. [f. FORE- pref. + HAMMER. Cf. Du. voorhamer (in Kilian, 1598 veurhamer), Da. forhammer.] The large hammer which strikes first; a sledge-hammer.

1

1543.  Richmond Wills (Surtees), 43. Item iiij fore hamers.

2

1592.  Sc. Act Jas. VI. (1814), III. 538. Breking vp his chalmer durris with foirhammeris.

3

1785.  Burns, Scotch Drink, xi.

        Brings hard owrehip, wi’ sturdy wheel,
                The strong forehammer,
Till block an’ studdie ring an’ reel
                Wi’ dinsome clamour.

4

1818.  Scott, Hrt. Midl., v. He was almost deafened by the unceasing clang of the heavy fore-hammers against the iron-bound portal of the prison.

5

1894.  Crockett, Raiders, xxxvii. 269–70. From the other side, where the office-houses were, came the sound of a forehammer thundering on a gate.

6