bollard,
n. [Cf.
Bole the stem of a tree, and
Pollard.].
An upright wooden or iron post in a boat or on a dock, used in veering or fastening ropes. [1913 Webster]
Bollard timber (Naut.), a timber, also called a knighthead, rising just within the stem in a ship, on either side of the bowsprit, to secure its end.