Definition

Noun: - The ship's officer in charge of navigation: A "sailing master" is a senior officer on a ship, historically and in some modern contexts, who is specifically responsible for planning and directing the vessel's course, using charts, instruments, and celestial navigation.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The captain consulted the sailing master before altering course for the storm.
  • In the age of sail, the sailing master was a crucial expert in piloting the ship across oceans.

Advanced Usage

• The role of sailing master is often associated with historical naval vessels, tall ships, or specialized modern sailing operations, distinguishing it from a generic navigator or first mate on a motor vessel.

Variants and Related Words

• Master (noun): In a maritime context, can refer to the captain or commander of a merchant ship.
• Navigator (noun): A person who directs the route or course of a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle. While similar, a "navigator" is a more general term, whereas "sailing master" implies a specific, often senior, officer role.

Synonyms

• Navigating officer: A direct synonym emphasizing the primary duty of navigation.
• Pilot: In some contexts, though a pilot typically guides a ship in and out of specific harbors or difficult waters rather than on the open sea.

Related Phrases

• To serve as sailing master: To hold the position of sailing master.
  • He served as sailing master on a historic frigate replica.

Noun

1. the ship's officer in charge of navigation