E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Spid’ireen or Spidereen.
The anonyma of ships. If a sailor is asked what ship he belongs to, and does not choose to tell, he will say, “The spidireen frigate with nine decks.” Officers who will not tell their quarters, give B.K.S. as their address. (See B.K.S.)
