Definition

Proper noun: - Sir Martin Frobisher: An English explorer and naval commander of the 16th century. He is historically significant for leading expeditions in search of the Northwest Passage to Asia and for his role as a vice-admiral in the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Sir Martin Frobisher made three voyages to the Canadian Arctic.
  • The history book featured a chapter on Sir Martin Frobisher and his search for gold.
  • As a vice-admiral under Sir Francis Drake, Sir Martin Frobisher fought against the Spanish Armada.

Advanced Usage

• "Frobisher's expeditions": Referring specifically to the voyages he led to Baffin Island (modern-day Canada) between 1576 and 1578.
  • Frobisher's expeditions brought back tons of ore that was mistakenly believed to contain gold.
• "In the tradition of Frobisher": Used to describe later Arctic exploration that follows his early pioneering efforts.
  • The 19th-century explorers set out in the tradition of Frobisher to chart the northern waters.

Variants and Related Words

• Frobisher Bay: (Proper noun) The name of a large inlet on Baffin Island, named after the explorer. It was the site of his expeditions. (Note: Its Inuktitut name, Iqaluit, is now the official name for the capital of Nunavut).
• Frobisherite: (Noun) A rare mineral, named in his honor.

Synonyms

• Explorer: A person who explores an unfamiliar area.
• Navigator: A person who directs the route or course of a ship or other form of transportation, especially by using instruments and maps.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• The Northwest Passage: The sea route between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through the Arctic Archipelago of northern Canada, which was the objective of Frobisher's voyages.
• The Spanish Armada: The great fleet sent by King Philip II of Spain in 1588 to invade England, which was defeated by the English navy where Frobisher served with distinction.

Noun

1. English explorer who led an expedition in search of the Northwest Passage to the orient; served under Drake and helped defeat the Spanish Armada (1535-1594)