E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Cast of the Eye (A).
A squint. One meaning of the word cast is to twist or warp. Thus, a fabric is said to “cast” when it warps; and seamen speak of “casting,” or turning the head of a ship on the tack it is to sail. We also speak of a “casting” or turning vote.
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“My goode bowe clene cast [twisted] on one side.”—Ascham: Toxophilus.
