Definition

Proper noun A fictional English naval officer who rises through the ranks to become an admiral, serving during the Napoleonic Wars. He is the protagonist of a series of novels written by C. S. Forester, renowned for his leadership, tactical brilliance, and deep sense of duty and introspection.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The novel "Beat to Quarters" follows Captain Horatio Hornblower on a daring mission.
  • Many readers admire Captain Horatio Hornblower for his complex character and strategic mind.

Advanced Usage

• "In the tradition of Captain Horatio Hornblower": Used to describe a character or story featuring a similarly resourceful and principled naval commander.
  • The new historical fiction series is written in the tradition of Captain Horatio Hornblower.

Variants and Related Words

• Hornblower: A common shortened reference to the character.
  • He is a true Hornblower, always finding a way to win against the odds.

Synonyms

• Fictional naval hero: A general term for a protagonist in maritime adventure literature.
• Nautical protagonist: The main character in a story set at sea.

Noun

1. a fictional English admiral during the Napoleonic Wars in novels written by C. S. Forester