vbl. sb. [f. LATCH v.1 + -ING1.]
† 1. The action of the vb. LATCH. Obs.
1362. Langl., P. Pl., A. I. 101. And leuen for no loue ne lacching of ȝiftus.
a. 1400–50. Alexander, 1835. For þe lachynge of your Lorde sall noght a lede weynde.
2. Naut. = LASKET. Also latchings keys.
1794. Rigging & Seamanship, 84. A bonnet … has latchings in the upper part … to go through holes in the foot of the sail.
1851. Kipping, Sailmaking (ed. 2), 37. The additional parts of sails, made to fasten with latchings to the foot of the sails.
1867. Smyth, Sailor’s Word-bk., Latchings keys, loops on the head-rope of a bonnet, by which it is laced to the foot of the sail.
