/dows/ , v. , doused, dousing , n.
v.t.
1. to plunge into water or the like; drench: She doused the clothes in soapy water.
2. to splash or throw water or other liquid on: The children doused each other with the hose.
3. to extinguish: She quickly doused the candle's flame with her fingertips.
4. Informal. to remove; doff.
5. Naut.
a. to lower or take in (a sail, mast, or the like) suddenly.
b. to slacken (a line) suddenly.
c. to stow quickly.
v.i.
6. to plunge or be plunged into a liquid.
n.
7. Brit. Dial. a stroke or blow.
Also, dowse .
[ 1590-1600; orig. uncert. ]