a-man' (translated from the Greek eis phugen hormesan, "they rushed to flight"): The word is composed of the prefix "a" and the word "main," meaning "force." The expression is used by Milton, Parker, et al., but in Biblical literature found only in 2 Maccabees 12:22 where used to describe the flight of Timotheus and his army after he suffered defeat at the hands of Judas Maccabee ("They fled amain," i.e. violently and suddenly).

2. (n.) At full speed; in great haste; also, at once.

3. (v. t.) To lower, as a sail, a yard, etc.

4. (v. i.) To lower the topsail, in token of surrender; to yield.