n. (Naut.) (a) The angle which a bowsprit makes with the horizon, or with the line of the vessel's keel; -- called also steeving. (b) A spar, with a block at one end, used in stowing cotton bales, and similar kinds of cargo which need to be packed tightly. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. [ imp. & p. p. Steeved p. pr. & vb. n. Steeving. ] [ Cf. OD. steve staff, E. stem, n. ] (Shipbuilding) To project upward, or make an angle with the horizon or with the line of a vessel's keel; -- said of the bowsprit, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. 1. (Shipbuilding) To elevate or fix at an angle with the horizon; -- said of the bowsprit, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To stow, as bales in a vessel's hold, by means of a steeve. See Steeve, n. (b). [ 1913 Webster ]