harpings

(redirected from harpins)

harpings

(ˈhɑːpɪŋz) or

harpins

pl n

1. (Nautical Terms) nautical wooden members used for strengthening the bow of a vessel

2. (Nautical Terms) shipbuilding wooden supports used in construction

[C17: perhaps related to French harpe cramp iron]

Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

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TORMENT: Planks are leant up against the Harpins' fence by Mr Griffin; FOR SALE: The Harpins' house, left; MOVE: Harpins

Richard and Fiona Harpin, both 49, claim they cannot sell their pounds 250,000 four bedroom terrace after a six-year hate campaign by Terence Griffin.

They say Mr Griffin has shouted insults through the walls, put bed frames, chairs, bicycles, rotting refuse, traffic cones, pallets and planks against their fence and repeatedly sung Nellie the Elephant when Mrs Harpin is in her garden after once seeing her in shorts.

Mrs Harpin, who teaches children with learning difficulties, said: "We have tried to sell our house but we have to tell potential buyers about our neighbour's harassment convictions.

The former council building inspector, 52, also nicknamed company director Mr Harpin the Penguin and Mrs Harpin Bugs Bunny.