Sailor Speak of the Week – Man

Definition

Verb

• To put the necessary number of crew to a function.

Origin

Probably earlier than the early 17th century. From the Old English word of the same meaning.

Comments

In this sense, not a person, but the verb to assign a certain number of people necessary to operate a piece of equipment. For example, to man the capstan or boat falls. It can also mean to crew a vessel.

References

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