English Reference

Word

arming

Phoneticsarm·ing

US/ˈɑɹmɪŋ/

UK/ˈɑːmɪŋ/

Definition

n. a sticky substance, like fat or wax, put on the bottom of a heavy tool used to measure the depth of the sea. It picks up sand or shells from the ocean floor so sailors can see what the bottom looks like.

n. the application of tallow or a similar adhesive substance to the cavity at the base of a sounding lead. This process allows for the retrieval of bottom samples, such as sand or gravel, to assist in maritime navigation and position-fixing.

Examples

“The sailor checked the arming to see if the seabed was sandy.”

“Before dropping the lead into the dark water, the crew applied fresh arming to ensure a clear sample of the bottom.”

“By examining the particles stuck to the arming, the navigator confirmed they were passing over the shingle bank described in the coastal charts, despite the thick fog obscuring the shore.”

Examples

simple

“The sailor checked the arming to see if the seabed was sandy.”

contextual

“Before dropping the lead into the dark water, the crew applied fresh arming to ensure a clear sample of the bottom.”

complex

“By examining the particles stuck to the arming, the navigator confirmed they were passing over the shingle bank described in the coastal charts, despite the thick fog obscuring the shore.”

Usage

Primarily used in a nautical context; refers to the substance itself or the act of applying it.

Real-World Examples

“Why hasn't that been chased up?" Sathit, a shop-owner with more than 40 guns in his collection, cited the weakness of law enforcement in Thailand as his reason for arming himself.”
BBC News · 16 Aug 2026
“She associates El-Sayed’s concern about arming Israel as an expression of antisemitism and claims that she won’t feel safe at the state’s nominating convention because she is Jewish.”
The Conversation · 12 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Middle English armyng.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domain

Nautical

This entry

Level
C2 · Proficiency
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/arming

English Reference