tugboat

Tug Tug, n. 1. A pull with the utmost effort, as in the athletic contest called tug of war; a supreme effort. [1913 Webster]

At the tug he falls, Vast ruins come along, rent from the smoking walls. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]

2. A sort of vehicle, used for conveying timber and heavy articles. [Prov. Eng.] --Halliwell. [1913 Webster]

3. (Naut.) A small, powerful steamboat used to tow vessels; -- called also {steam tug}, {tugboat}, and {towboat}. [1913 Webster]

4. A trace, or drawing strap, of a harness. [1913 Webster]

5. (Mining.) An iron hook of a hoisting tub, to which a tackle is affixed. [1913 Webster]

{Tug iron}, an iron hook or button to which a tug or trace may be attached, as on the shaft of a wagon. [1913 Webster]