phr. Naut. [prob. a worn-down form of Du. hou’vast, houd vast, hold fast: cf. Du. hou stop! stay! and houvast cramp-iron.] Hold! stop! stay! cease!
1681. Otway, Soldier’s Fort., IV. i. Hoa up, hoa up; so, avast there, Sir.
1727–51. Chambers, Cycl., Avast, a term frequently used on board a ship, signifying to stop, hold, or stay.
1748. Smollett, Rod. Rand., xli. ‘Avast there friend, none of your tricks upon travellers.’
1836. Marryat, Midsh. Easy, xix. 70. ‘Avast heaving,’ said Gascoigne.
