CORD, or CHORD, an assemblage of several threads of hemp, cabled or twisted together by means of a wheel. See CORDAGE. The word comes from the Greek χορδὴ, which properly signifies an intestine or gut, of which cords may be made. See CHORD.
Magical Cord, an instrument in great use among the Laplanders, and by them supposed to be endued with a number of virtues. It is a cord or rope with three knots tied in it. They use many magical rites and ceremonies in the tying of this cord; and, when thus prepared, it is supposed to have power over the winds; and they will sell, by means of it, a good wind, or at least the promise of one, to a ship. If they untie only one of these knots, a moderate gale succeeds; if two, it is much stronger; and if three, a storm is sure to follow.
Cord of Wood, a certain quantity of wood for burning, so called because formerly measured with a cord. The dimensions of a statute cord of wood are eight feet long, four feet high, and four feet broad.
Cord-Wood, is new wood, and such as, when brought by water, comes on board a vessel, in opposition to that which is floated.