boatswain

noun boat·swain \ˈbō-s^ən\

: an officer on a ship whose job is to take care of the main body of the ship and all the ship's equipment

Full Definition of BOATSWAIN

: a petty officer on a merchant ship having charge of hull maintenance and related work

: a naval warrant officer in charge of the hull and all related equipment

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boat·swain or bosun also bos'n or bo's'n or bo'sun \ˈbō-s^ən\

Middle English bootswein, from boot boat + swein boy, servant — more at swain

First Known Use: 14th century

BOATSWAIN Defined for Kids

noun boat·swain \ˈbō-s^ən\

: a warrant officer on a warship or a petty officer on a commercial ship who has charge of the hull, anchors, boats, and rigging

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