D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Sheet anchor

/shēt ăng'-kẽr/ · Sheet· an·chor · IPA
01 v. t. A large anchor stowed on shores outside the waist of a vessel; -- called also waist anchor. See the Note under Anchor.
  1. 1.
    A large anchor stowed on shores outside the waist of a vessel; -- called also waist anchor. See the Note under Anchor.(Naut.) Also: waist anchor See: Anchor
  2. 2.
    Anything regarded as a sure support or dependence in danger; the best hope or refuge.