scribing iron

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

1.To write, engrave, or mark upon; to inscribe. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]

2.(Carp.) To cut (anything) in such a way as to fit closely to a somewhat irregular surface, as a baseboard to a floor which is out of level, a board to the curves of a molding, or the like; -- so called because the workman marks, or scribes, with the compasses the line that he afterwards cuts. [1913 Webster]

3.To score or mark with compasses or a scribing iron. [1913 Webster]

Scribing iron, an iron-pointed instrument for scribing, or marking, casks and logs. [1913 Webster]