·noun A thick mat or hassock. ·see 2d Bass, 2.
II. Bast ·noun The inner fibrous bark of various plants; ·esp. of the lime tree; hence, matting, cordage, ·etc., made therefrom.
Lime-tree, linden (Tilia europea). Bast is made also from the bark of various other trees, macerated...
The Sailor's Word-Book