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Glite Dictionary
bos'n

bos'n

9.9
A senior sailor who directs the work of other sailors on a cargo ship
  • noun
  • /ˈbɒzən/
  • Jargon
translation icon : contramaestre
  • The bos'n instructed the crew to prepare the ship for departure.

Examples

  • The crew respected the bos'n for his experience and fairness.

  • As bos'n, he made sure all maintenance work was done promptly.

  • The bos'n gave instructions to the deckhands before the storm hit.

  • The bos'n gave clear orders to the crew.

  • Many bos'ns have years of experience at sea.

  • As a bos'n, he was responsible for overseeing the sailors and ensuring their tasks were completed.

  • During the storm, the bos'n shouted commands to keep everyone working efficiently on the deck.

Synonyms

bosun
vsbos'n
  • Specialized
6 9.6

A senior crew member on a ship who supervises the deck crew

directs other seamen with broader focus rather than listing specific deck tasks
boatswain
vsbos'n
  • Specialized
5 9.9

A ship officer who looks after equipment and leads the crew that keeps it working

is stated as directing seamen's work rather than focusing on equipment management
bo'sun
vsbos'n
  • UK
1 9.9

A senior crew member on a ship who watches the deck crew and keeps equipment working

focuses on directing seamen's work rather than detailed equipment care
bo's'n
vsbos'n
  • Jargon
9.9

A ship officer who leads the deck crew and gives them orders

emphasizes directing other seamen generally rather than naming deck leadership

Surface Forms

bos'n singular
bos'ns plural
bosuns plural
bosun singular

Etymology

Bos'n is a sailor's short form of boatswain, a word made from boat and swain which meant 'servant' or helper of the boat. So a bos'n started as the boat's helper and today is the experienced deck officer who directs the crew and looks after the ship's ropes and gear.