Davit \Dav"it\, n. [Cf. F. davier forceps, davit, cooper's instrument, G. david davit; all probably from the proper name David.]

(Naut.)
   (a) A spar formerly used on board of ships, as a crane to hoist the flukes of the anchor to the top of the bow, without injuring the sides of the ship; -- called also the fish davit.
   (b) pl. Curved arms of timber or iron, projecting over a ship's side of stern, having tackle to raise or lower a boat, swing it in on deck, rig it out for lowering, etc.; -- called also boat davits. --Totten.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)