n.
- The strap of a horse's harness that connects the girth to the noseband and is designed to prevent the horse from throwing back its head.
- Nautical. Any of several parts of standing rigging strengthening the bowsprit and jib boom against the force of the head stays.
- Games. A method of gambling in which one doubles the stakes after each loss.
- A loose half belt or strap placed on the back of a garment, such as a coat or jacket.
[French, perhaps alteration of Spanish almártaga, almártiga, rein, harness, perhaps of Arabic origin.]





