plural. The framework on which a ship or boat is supported while in process of construction.

transferred and figurative: esp. (plural) applied to the legs.

Nautical. The framework on which a ship rests during construction or repairs, and on which she slides at launching. Also, that in which a vessel…

a cradle (cradle, n. 9) for a boat.

Nautical. A heavy framework of beams in parallel open order (suggesting a gridiron) used to support a ship in dock. (So French gril.)

One of a number of beams, or pieces of stone, on which a vessel is built, or placed during repair.

Nautical. = gridiron, n. 3b.

A framework of bars or spars for strengthening, support, etc.; see quots. Cf. cradle, n. 6.