In 7 lath, 7–8 leath. [Cogn. w. Sw. lad, G. lade, of the same meaning; cf. prec. and LAY sb.] The movable swing-frame or batten of a loom.
a. 1633. Austin, Medit. (1635), 281. At every change the Shittle flyes thorow and thorow it [the web]; and ever and anone the Lath thumps and smites it.
1688. R. Holme, Armoury, III. 107/2. The Leath, that is a moving Frame in which the reed is placed by which the Woof is knockt or beaten into the Warp.
1743. Maxwell, Sel. Trans., 342. The Weaver should … likewise be careful each time he throws the Shuttle, that he draws the Thread straight and light to the Cloth, before he strikes with the Leath.
1889. Posselt, Techn. Textile Design, 290. Lay, Lathe or Batten, a part of a loom. To it are secured the shuttle-boxes and the reed.
