from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Crotch \Crotch\ (kr[o^]ch; 224), n.; pl. {Crotches}
(kr[o^]ch"[e^]z). [Cf. {Crotchet}, {Crutch}.]
1. The angle formed by the parting of two legs or branches; a
fork; the point where a trunk divides; as, the crotch of a
tree. more specifically, the space on the human torso
between the two legs; also, the corresponding part between
the legs of a pair of pants, which is in contact with the
crotch of the wearer; as, pants with a tight crotch have
become very popular.
[1913 Webster +PJC]
2. (Naut.) A stanchion or post of wood or iron, with two arms
for supporting a boom, spare yards, etc.; -- called also
{crane} and {crutch}. --Totten.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Billiards) In the three-ball carom game, a small space at
each corner of the table. See {Crotched}, below.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Crotch \Crotch\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Crotched} (kr[o^]cht); p.
pr. & vb. n. {Crotch"ing}.]
1. To provide with a crotch; to give the form of a crotch to;
as, to crotch the ends of ropes in splicing or tying
knots.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
2. (Logging) To notch (a log) on opposite sides to provide a
grip for the dogs in hauling. [Western, U. S.]
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]