In 4 brigge-.
1. The keeper or warden of a bridge.
a. 1000. Battle of Maldon (in Sweet), 85, Ags. Reader, 136. Ðæt hi ðær brycgweardas bitere fundon.
c. 1380. Sir Ferumb., 1700. A geant ys maked briggeward … þe brigge ay kepeþ hee.
1820. Scott, Monastery, vi. The bridge-wards have been in possession of these dues … for more than fifty years.
2. The custody or wardship of a bridge.
c. 1380. Sir Ferumb., 3560. Þat nyȝt … þe brigge-warde forȝete was, þorw murȝþe of ys play.
3. Lock-smithing. The main ward of a key.
