jack-chain
[f. Jack n.1 7: because used in roasting-jacks.]
1. A chain each link of which consists of a double loop of wire, resembling a figure of 8, but with the loops in planes at right angles to each other; the links are not welded.
| 1639 W. Cartwright Royall Slave i. ii, If you'l make use of any ornaments, I've a couple of jack-chains at your service. 1676 Wycherley Pl. Dealer i. i, Here you see..a great Lord [bowing] to a Fishmonger, or Scrivener with a Jack-chain about his neck. 1801 Trans. Soc. Arts XIX. 125 Six lengths of jack-chain. 1892 Pall Mall G. 23 Sept. 6/2 Much stronger than ordinary welded or jack chains. |
2. Logging. (See quot. 1905.)
| 1905 Terms Forestry & Logging (U.S. Dept. Agric. Bureau Forestry) 40 Jack chain, an endless spiked chain, which moves logs from one point to another, usually from the mill pond into the sawmill. 1957 in Brit. Commonwealth Forest Terminol. ii. 97. |