DICT.TW Dictionary Taiwan

 Stanch, a. [Compar. Stancher superl. Stanchest.]  [Written also staunch.]
 1. Strong and tight; sound; firm; as, a stanch ship.
    One of the closets is parqueted with plain deal, set in diamond, exceeding stanch and pretty.   --Evelyn.
 2. Firm in principle; constant and zealous; loyal; hearty; steady; steadfast; as, a stanch churchman; a stanch friend or adherent.
    In politics I hear you 're stanch.   --Prior.
 3. Close; secret; private. [Obs.]
    This is to be kept stanch.   --Locke.