Georg Autenrieth, A Homeric Dictionary

μεσόδμη (δέμω): properly something mid-built.—(1) mast-block, represented in the cut (see a) as a metal shoe in which the mast was firmly fastened so as to be turned back ward on the pivot (c) to a horizontal position, until it rested upon the ἱστοδόκη, Od. 2.424. See also plate IV., where the μεσόδμη is somewhat differently represented as a threesided trough or mast-box.—(2) μεσόδμαι, small spaces or niches, opening into the μέγαρον of the house, and enclosed on three sides, behind by the outside wall, and on either side by the low walls which served as foundations of the columns, Od. 19.37. (See plate III., γ, and cut No. 83.)