%remora%

‖n. [ L.: cf. F. rémora. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. Delay; obstacle; hindrance. [ Obs. ] Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Zool.) Any one of several species of fishes belonging to Echeneis, Remora, and allied genera. Called also sucking fish. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ The anterior dorsal fin is converted into a large sucking disk, having two transverse rows of lamellae, situated on the top of the head. They adhere firmly to sharks and other large fishes and to vessels by this curious sucker, letting go at will. The pegador, or remora of sharks (Echeneis naucrates), and the swordfish remora (Remora brachyptera), are common American species. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Surg.) An instrument formerly in use, intended to retain parts in their places. Dunglison. [ 1913 Webster ]