An elevated tubular metal railing installed at the bow of a vessel to prevent crew from falling overboard while handling sails or anchors. It often extends slightly forward of the deck and provides a secure working area right at the stem.
Heard on the job
Go forward to the pulpit and get the anchor ready to drop.
Insider tip
The equivalent structure at the stern is almost always called the pushpit by sailors, though some manufacturers still list it as a stern pulpit.
Also heard as
- bow pulpit