Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CAST, v.i.

1. To throw forward, as the thoughts, with a view to some determination; or to turn or revolve in the mind; to contrive; sometimes followed by about. I cast in careful mind to seek her out. – Spenser. To cast about how to perform or obtain. – Bacon. Bentley.
2. To receive form or shape. Metal will cast and mold. – Woodward.
3. To warp; to twist from regular shape. Stuff is said to cast or warp, when it alters its flatness or straightness. – Moxon. Note. Cast, like throw and warp, implies a winding motion.
4. In seamen's language, to fall off, or incline, so as to bring the side of a ship to the wind; applied particularly to a ship riding with her head to the wind, when her anchor is first loosened.