from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Sinker \Sink"er\, n.
One who, or that which, sinks. Specifically:
(a) A weight on something, as on a fish line, to sink it.
(b) In knitting machines, one of the thin plates, blades, or
other devices, that depress the loops upon or between the
needles.
[1913 Webster]
{Dividing sinker}, in knitting machines, a sinker between two
jack sinkers and acting alternately with them.
{Jack sinker}. See under {Jack}, n.
{Sinker bar}.
(a) In knitting machines, a bar to which one set of the
sinkers is attached.
(b) In deep well boring, a heavy bar forming a connection
between the lifting rope and the boring tools, above the
jars.
[1913 Webster]