\Skains"mate`\, n. [Perhaps originally, a companion
in winding thread (see {Skein}), or a companion in arms, from
skain a sword (see {Skean}).]
A messmate; a companion. [Obs.]
      Scurvy knave! I am none of his firt-gills; I am none of
      his skainsmates.                         --Shak.