Looks like Shortwave Tom took the day off, so I'll fill in with a
nautical word.

samson post (n): 1. A short mast of spar that supports auxiliary
cargo boms. 2. IN SMALL BOATS AND PLEASURE CRAFT, a stout bitt near
the bow for use with ground tackle. 3. In wooden ships, a hold
stanchion that rested on the keelson and supported the deck beams.


Often lubberized as "Sampson post", but the usage without the "p" is
traditionally correct. The term relates to "samson line", a light
duty hemp line commonly used for signal halyards and lacings.

On modern boats, nearly always refers to a wooden or stainless post,
with mooring bit, on the foredeck just aft of the ground tackle winch.
Handy spot at which to belay a rope rode, (or a check line for a chain
rode), to avoid straining the gypsy or the drum.

(paragraph 2 is from "Sailor's illustrated Dictionary" by Lenfestey &
Lenfestey)