The traditional Midshipman’s insignia in the Royal Navy.

Definition

Noun

  1. (British, European) A boy, usually early teens, who went to sea for training to be an officer.
  2. (American) Student officers at the U.S. Naval Academy or NROTC.

Origin

(First definition) Early 17th century. (Second definition) 19th century.

Comments

This word came about since these young boys were quartered amidships, forward of the officers and abaft the crew. Originally, in the Royal Navy, Midshipmen were senior Petty Officers and ranked just below Lieutenants. Advancing in rank required passing an exam.

Starting in 1677, all candidates for an officer’s commission had to serve one year as a Midshipman. From 1703, this was increased to at least two years. From 1794, all midshipmen were considered candidates for a commission.

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.