boatswain Definition
a ship's officer in charge of equipment and the crew who maintain it.
Using boatswain: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "boatswain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The boatswain was responsible for keeping the ship's rigging in good condition.
Example
The captain ordered the boatswain to prepare the ship for the storm.
Example
The boatswain's whistle signaled the start of the workday.
boatswain Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for boatswain
- bosun
- bos'n
- bo's'n
Phrases with boatswain
boatswain's chair
a seat or sling suspended from a rope, used for working aloft on a ship
Example
The sailor climbed up to the top of the mast using a boatswain's chair.
boatswain's mate
an assistant to the boatswain, responsible for supervising the deck crew
Example
The boatswain's mate was in charge of the sailors who were painting the ship's hull.
boatswain's call
a whistle used by the boatswain to give orders to the crew
Example
The boatswain's call signaled the end of the workday.
Origins of boatswain
from Middle English 'bote' meaning 'boat' + 'swain' meaning 'boy, servant'
Summary: boatswain in Brief
A 'boatswain' [ˈboʊsn] is an officer on a ship who is responsible for maintaining the equipment and the crew who maintain it. The term is often shortened to 'bosun' or 'bos'n.' Phrases related to the boatswain include 'boatswain's chair,' 'boatswain's mate,' and 'boatswain's call.'
