'Coffer dam' definitions:

Definition of 'Coffer dam'

From: GCIDE
  • Coffer \Cof"fer\ (?; 115), n. [OF. cofre, F. coffre, L. cophinus basket, fr. Gr. ?. Cf. Coffin, n.]
  • 1. A casket, chest, or trunk; especially, one used for keeping money or other valuables. --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]
  • In ivory coffers I have stuffed my crowns. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Fig.: Treasure or funds; -- usually in the plural. [1913 Webster]
  • He would discharge it without any burden to the queen's coffers, for honor sake. --Bacon. [1913 Webster]
  • Hold, here is half my coffer. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Arch.) A panel deeply recessed in the ceiling of a vault, dome, or portico; a caisson. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. (Fort.) A trench dug in the bottom of a dry moat, and extending across it, to enable the besieged to defend it by a raking fire. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. The chamber of a canal lock; also, a caisson or a cofferdam. [1913 Webster]
  • Coffer dam. (Engin.) See Cofferdam, in the Vocabulary.
  • Coffer fish. (Zool.) See Cowfish. [1913 Webster]