Definition

Noun: A method of carrying an unconscious, injured, or cooperative person by draping them over the carrier's shoulders, with the person's torso hanging down the carrier's back and their legs hanging down the carrier's front. This technique is commonly used in rescue situations, emergency response, and some sports like wrestling.

Usage

The term "fireman's carry" is used to describe this specific carrying technique. It is a compound noun. The technique is named for its frequent use by firefighters to quickly evacuate individuals from danger.

Examples

• The lifeguard used a fireman's carry to bring the exhausted swimmer safely to shore.
• In the drill, the cadet demonstrated a proper fireman's carry on his partner.
• The wrestler executed a takedown and finished the move with a fireman's carry, lifting his opponent.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to describe bearing a heavy burden or responsibility, though this is less common.
  • Managing the project felt like a constant fireman's carry of other people's problems.

Variants and Related Words

• Fireman's lift: A synonymous term, more commonly used in British English.
• Shoulder carry: A more general term that can describe the fireman's carry or similar methods.

Synonyms

• Rescue carry
• Shoulder carry

Related Idioms or Phrases

• To give someone a fireman's carry: To lift and carry someone using this specific method.
  • He had to give the injured hiker a fireman's carry down the mountain trail.

Noun

1. the act of carrying a person over your shoulder