† passing nippersn.NauticalObsolete yarn used to bind the messenger (messengern. 4) to the cable.
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1857 W. BradyKedge-anchor 196 There should also be had in readiness an ample quantity of nippers. (See passing nippers.)
a1884 E. H. KnightPract. Dict. Mech. Suppl. 660/2Passing Nippers, a strong hank of untwisted but mailed yarn used in binding the messenger to the cable.