Steeve \Steeve\, n. (Naut.) (a) The angle which a bowsprit makes with the horizon, or with the line of the vessel's keel; -- called also {steeving}. (b) A spar, with a block at one end, used in stowing cotton bales, and similar kinds of cargo which need to be packed tightly. [1913 Webster]
Steeve \Steeve\ (st[=e]v), v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Steeved}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Steeving}.] [Cf. OD. steve staff, E. stem, n.] (Shipbuilding) To project upward, or make an angle with the horizon or with the line of a vessel's keel; -- said of the bowsprit, etc. [1913 Webster]
Steeve \Steeve\, v. t. 1. (Shipbuilding) To elevate or fix at an angle with the horizon; -- said of the bowsprit, etc. [1913 Webster] 2. To stow, as bales in a vessel's hold, by means of a steeve. See {Steeve}, n. (b) . [1913 Webster]