The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Taut \Taut\, a. [Dan. t[ae]t; akin to E. tight. See Tight.]
   1. (Naut.) Tight; stretched; not slack; -- said esp. of a
      rope that is tightly strained.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. Snug; close; firm; secure.
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   Taut hand (Naut.), a sailor's term for an officer who is
      severe in discipline.
      [1913 Webster]