notch

NOTCH, n. [G. to crack or flaw. It seems to be the same word in origin as niche, nick.]

1. A hollow cut in any thing; a nick; an indentation.

And on the stick ten equal notches makes.

2. An opening or narrow passge through a mountain or hill. We say, the notch of a mountain.

NOTCH, v.t. To cut in small hollows; as, to notch a stick.