whisker

noun

1. 1

   That part of the beard which grows upon the sides of the face, usually of the male, or upon the chin, or upon both.

2. 2

   A hair of the beard.

3. 3

   One of the long, projecting hairs growing at the sides of the mouth of a cat, or other animal.

4. 4

   The (very small) distance between two things.

   “It missed falling on your foot by a whisker.”

5. 5

   Spreaders from the bows to spread the bowsprit shrouds.

6. 6

   A graphic element that shows the maxima and minima in a box plot.

7. 7

   One who, or that which, whisks, or moves with a quick, sweeping motion.

8. 8

   A small tendril that forms on metal.