'Sheet anchor' definitions:

Definition of 'sheet anchor'

From: WordNet
noun
Spare anchor for use in emergency [syn: sheet anchor, waist anchor]

Definition of 'Sheet anchor'

From: GCIDE
  • Sheet anchor \Sheet" an"chor\ [OE. scheten to shoot, AS. sce['o]tan; cf. OE. shoot anchor. See Shoot, v. t.]
  • 1. (Naut.) A large anchor stowed on shores outside the waist of a vessel; -- called also waist anchor. See the Note under Anchor. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Anything regarded as a sure support or dependence in danger; the best hope or refuge. [1913 Webster]