Stanch \Stanch\, a. [Compar. Stancher (-[~e]r); superl.
   Stanchest.] [From Stanch, v. t., and hence literally
   signifying, stopped or stayed; cf. Sp. estanco stopped,
   tight, not leaky, as a ship. See Stanch, v. t.] [Written
   also staunch.]
   1. Strong and tight; sound; firm; as, a stanch ship.
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            One of the closets is parqueted with plain deal, set
            in diamond, exceeding stanch and pretty. --Evelyn.
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   2. Firm in principle; constant and zealous; loyal; hearty;
      steady; steadfast; as, a stanch churchman; a stanch friend
      or adherent. --V. Knox.
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            In politics I hear you 're stanch.    --Prior.
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   3. Close; secret; private. [Obs.]
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            This is to be kept stanch.            --Locke.
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