- a log, concrete block, etc., buried in the ground as an anchor.
- a crutchlike prop temporarily supporting a pole or mast being erected.
- Nautical.
- an object fixed on shore to hold a mooring line temporarily.
- a rope for hauling the boom of a derrick inboard after discharge of a load of cargo.
- of or relating to a control or switch on a powered machine or vehicle that disengages a blade or clutch, applies the brake, shuts off the engine, etc., when the driver or operator ceases to press a pedal, squeeze a throttle, etc.: deadman throttle; dead-man's control.
- a heavy plate, wall, or block buried in the ground that acts as an anchor for a retaining wall, sheet pile, etc, by a tie connecting the two
- a metal plate with a wire loop attached for thrusting into firm snow to serve as a belay point, a smaller version being known as a deadboy
