Dictionary.net

A rope used to retain the bars of the capstan in their sockets while men are turning it.

The forward shroud of a lower mast.

To tighten, as slack standing rigging, by bringing the opposite shrouds nearer.

A rope used to confine the bars of the capstan in their sockets while men are turning it: also, a rope used to encircle a boat longitudinally to strengthen and defend her sides in collision. Swifters also are two shrouds fixed on the starboard and larboard sides of the lower masts, above all the other shrouds, to give the masts additional security.

n. A rope used to confine the bars of the capstan in their sockets; a flying shroud set above the other shrouds, to give the masts additional security.