Definition Noun and verb A vessel’s tipping or leaning due to wind, improper trim, or the shifting of cargo. Origin 13th century. From the Anglo-Saxon
Category: Sailor Speak of the Week
Learn the lingo of the salty sailor, pirate, and mariner.
Sailor Speak of the Week – Ketch
Definition Noun A two-masted sailboat with the after mast (mizzen/jigger) being shorter and stepped forward of the rudder post. Origin Probably earlier than the 15th
Sailor Speak of the Week – Jettison
Definition Verb To throw cargo, stores, or gear overboard. Origin Derived from the noun jetsam. Comments A fairly common word nowadays. Used in both the
Sailor Speak of the Week – Irish Hurricane
Definition Noun AKA “Paddy’s Gale.” A flat calm. Origin Probably earlier than the 19th century. Comments One of those terms with an ironic definition. Personally,
Sailor Speak of the Week – Hull Down
Definition Adjective. Said of a vessel at such a distance that part or all of the hull is below the horizon and only the mast
Sailor Speak of the Week – Gear
Definition Noun Any kind of ship’s/sailor’s equipment. Origin 15th century. From Middle English word, gere, and then the Icelandic, gervi, both of the same meaning.
Fair Winds & Following Seas 