Douse (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Doused (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Dousing.] [Cf. Dowse, and OD. donsen to strike with the fist on the back, Sw. dunsa to fall down violently and noisily; perh. akin to E. din.] 1. To plunge suddenly into water; to duck; to immerse; to dowse. Bp. Stillingfleet.
2. (Naut.) To strike or lower in haste; to slacken suddenly; as, douse the topsail.