gangway

n. [ See Gang, v. i. ] 1. A passage or way into or out of any inclosed place; esp., a temporary way of access formed of planks. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. In the English House of Commons, a narrow aisle across the house, below which sit those who do not vote steadly either with the government or with the opposition. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Naut.) The opening through the bulwarks of a vessel by which persons enter or leave it. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Naut.) That part of the spar deck of a vessel on each side of the booms, from the quarter-deck to the forecastle; -- more properly termed the waist. Totten. [ 1913 Webster ]

Gangway ladder, a ladder rigged on the side of a vessel at the gangway. --
To bring to the gangway, to punish (a seaman) by flogging him at the gangway. [ 1913 Webster ]