(n.) One employed to steer a vessel; a helmsman; a steersman.
(n.) Specifically, a person duly qualified, and licensed by authority, to conduct vessels into and out of a port, or in certain waters, for a fixed rate of fees.
(n.) Figuratively: A guide; a director of another through a difficult or unknown course.
(n.) An instrument for detecting the compass error.
(n.) The cowcatcher of a locomotive.
(v. t.) To direct the course of, as of a ship, where navigation is dangerous.
(v. t.) Figuratively: To guide, as through dangers or difficulties.