from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Jib \Jib\ (j[i^]b), n. [Named from its shifting from side to
side. See {Jib}, v. i.., {Jibe}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. (Naut.) A triangular sail set upon a stay or halyard
extending from the foremast or fore-topmast to the
bowsprit or the jib boom. Large vessels often carry
several jibs; as, inner jib; outer jib; flying jib; etc.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Mach.) The projecting arm of a crane, from which the load
is suspended.
[1913 Webster]
3. One that jibs, or balks; a jibber.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
4. A stationary condition; a standstill.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
{Jib boom} (Naut.), a spar or boom which serves as an
extension of the bowsprit. It is sometimes extended by
another spar called the flying jib boom. [Written also
{gib boom}.]
{Jib crane} (Mach.), a crane having a horizontal jib on which
a trolley moves, bearing the load.
{Jib door} (Arch.), a door made flush with the wall, without
dressings or moldings; a disguised door.
{Jib header} (Naut.), a gaff-topsail, shaped like a jib; a
jib-headed topsail.
{Jib topsail} (Naut.), a small jib set above and outside of
all the other jibs.
{The cut of one's jib}, one's outward appearance. [Colloq.]
--Sir W. Scott.
[1913 Webster]