• (n.) A thick piece of timber in the form of a knee, placed across the stem of a ship to strengthen the fore part and unite the bows on each side. Found on http://thinkexist.com/dictionary/meaning/breasthook/
Breast'hook` noun (Nautical) A thick piece of timber in the form of a knee, placed across the stem of a ship to strengthen the fore part and unite the bows on each side. Totten. Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/webster/B/95