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Webster 1913 Edition
Sponson
Spon′son
(-sŭn)
, Noun.
(Shipbuilding)
(a)
One of the triangular platforms in front of, and abaft, the paddle boxes of a steamboat.
(b)
One of the slanting supports under the guards of a steamboat.
(c)
One of the armored projections fitted with gun ports, used on modern war vessels.