cockswain
Definition
- Noun:
- A person who steers a ship's boat: "cockswain" (often spelled "coxswain") refers to the person who steers a small boat, such as a lifeboat or a racing rowboat, and is responsible for giving commands to the crew.
- A petty officer in charge of a boat: In naval contexts, a "cockswain" is a petty officer who commands a ship's small boat and oversees its crew and equipment.
Usage Examples
- (The person steering the boat directed the crew.)
- (He was the petty officer in charge of the small boat.)
Advanced Usage
"to act as cockswain": to perform the duties of steering and commanding a small boat.
- She was chosen to act as cockswain for the university rowing team. (She was selected to steer and lead the boat.)
"cockswain's whistle": a whistle used by the cockswain to signal the crew.
- The cockswain's whistle pierced the fog, guiding the rowers. (The signal device was used to coordinate the crew.)
Variants and Related Words
Coxswain (n): the more common modern spelling of "cockswain," meaning the same thing.
- The coxswain steered the boat with precision. (The person in charge navigated carefully.)
Cox (n): a shortened, informal form of "coxswain."
- The cox called out the stroke rate. (The coxswain directed the rowing pace.)
Synonyms
- Steersman: a person who steers a boat or ship.
- Helmsman: a person who steers a vessel, especially at the helm.
Related Idioms
- "To be at the helm": to be in control or in charge, similar to the cockswain's role.
- As the new project leader, he was at the helm of the team. (He was in a position of command, like a cockswain.)
Notes on Spelling
- "Cockswain" is an older spelling; "coxswain" is the standard modern form. Both refer to the same role.