save v OED ~ v 11 obs (1602 quot Co) for sense 1; EDD 3 D for sense 2.
1 To preserve cod, etc, by salting and drying; cure; DRY, MAKE.
1620 WHITBOURNE 37 These shippes yeerely carrie thither, neere halfe their lading of salt, to save their fish withall. [1653] 1956 CUTTING 136 [That] no planter be permitted to ... keep any pigs or other cattle upon or near the ground where fish is saved or dried. [1663] 1963 YONGE 57 The complement of men to a boat are 5, that is 3 for to catch the [cod] fish, two to save it. 1873 CARROLL 38 I always endeavoured to make myself thoroughly acquainted with the best and surest way of saving Herring, so as to make them a good and profitable article of Trade.
2 To harvest and store hay.
1974 MANNION 93 Traditionally, the settlers near St John's began mowing on 'the day after the races in Quidi Vidi,' in early August, and by Lady Day (August 15) most of the hay was usually 'saved.'
3 Phr save one's spring: to show a moderate profit at the end of a fishing season. Cp SPRING1.
1960 FUDGE 51 ... my Seine Master George Pauls, who saved his spring to the amazement of himself and his crew.
