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. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Naut.) To strike or lower in haste; to slacken suddenly; as, douse the topsail. [ 1913 Webster ]