forepole

1 of 2

transitive verb

variants or less commonly forepale

(ˈ)⸗¦⸗

: to advance (an excavation) in quicksand or caving ground by driving poles, slabs, or sheathing into the ground ahead of the excavating or simultaneously with it

forepole

2 of 2

noun

: a piece of lagging, a heavy plank, or a pole, sharpened on one end and used in forepoling

called also lath, spile, spiling

Word History

Etymology

Transitive verb

fore- + pole or pale (verb)

Noun

fore- + pole (noun)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now