(King, Hattendorf, and Estes 1997, p. 73.)

Definition

Noun

  • A boat assigned to the commanding officer of a large naval vessel.

Origin

Probably earlier than the 18th century. From the Middle English word gigge, meaning small boat.

Comments

An earlier version would be a small, narrow, clinker-built boat that was either rowed or sailed (again for use by a ship’s commander). Eventually, these changed to a carvel construction with four to six oars. Two short masts were included, which could be shipped when needed. Naturally, small gasoline or diesel boats have superseded the oars and sails.

References

Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

King, D., Hattendorf, J.B, & Estes, J.W. (1997). A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O’Brian’s Seafaring Tales (2nd Ed.). Owl Books.

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.