Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Crimp \Crimp\ (kr[i^]mp), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Crimped}
   (kr[i^]mt; 215); p. pr. & vb. n. {Crimping}.] [Akin to D.
   krimpen to shrink, shrivel, Sw. krympa, Dan. krympe, and to
   E. cramp. See {Cramp}.]
   1. To fold or plait in regular undulation in such a way that
      the material will retain the shape intended; to give a
      wavy appearance to; as, to crimp the border of a cap; to
      crimp a ruffle. Cf. {Crisp}.

            The comely hostess in a crimped cap.  --W. Irving.

   2. To pinch and hold; to seize.

   3. Hence, to entrap into the military or naval service; as,
      to crimp seamen.

            Coaxing and courting with intent to crimp him.
                                                  --Carlyle.

   4. (Cookery) To cause to contract, or to render more crisp,
      as the flesh of a fish, by gashing it, when living, with a
      knife; as, to crimp skate, etc.

   {Crimping house}, a low lodging house, into which men are
      decoyed and plied with drink, to induce them to ship or
      enlist as sailors or soldiers.

   {Crimping iron}.
      (a) An iron instrument for crimping and curling the hair.
      (b) A crimping machine.

   {Crimping machine}, a machine with fluted rollers or with
      dies, for crimping ruffles leather, iron, etc.

   {Crimping pin}, an instrument for crimping or puckering the
      border of a lady's cap.