matelotage Definition
- 1a traditional form of same-sex partnership or civil union among sailors in the French Navy
- 2the practice of matelots (sailors) forming such partnerships
Using matelotage: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "matelotage" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Matelotage was a common practice among sailors in the French Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Example
Matelots who formed matelotage partnerships were entitled to certain privileges and benefits, such as shared living quarters and increased pay.
Example
Matelotage was officially recognized by the French Navy until the mid-20th century.
Origins of matelotage
from French 'matelot', meaning 'sailor'
Summary: matelotage in Brief
Matelotage [mætləʊtɑːʒ] is a traditional form of same-sex partnership or civil union among sailors in the French Navy. It was a common practice during the 18th and 19th centuries and provided certain privileges and benefits to matelots who formed such partnerships. Matelotage was officially recognized by the French Navy until the mid-20th century.