Definition

1. Noun:
   • A licensed officer commanding a merchant ship: A "sea captain" is a person who holds the authority and legal license to be in command of a merchant vessel, responsible for its navigation, crew, cargo, and overall safety during a voyage.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The experienced sea captain navigated the cargo ship through the storm.
  • To become a sea captain, one must obtain the proper master's license.

Advanced Usage

• "Master and Commander": A formal or historical title closely associated with the role of a sea captain, emphasizing complete authority over a ship and its mission.
  • In the age of sail, a sea captain was often referred to as the master and commander of his vessel.

Variants and Related Words

• Captain (n): A more general term for a person in command of a ship, aircraft, or sports team. While often used interchangeably, "sea captain" specifically denotes command of a sea-going merchant ship.
  • The captain of the naval destroyer addressed the crew.
• Skipper (n, informal): A casual term for the captain or master of a boat or ship.
  • The skipper decided to change course.

Synonyms

• Shipmaster: A formal synonym for the captain of a merchant ship.
• Master Mariner: A term emphasizing professional qualification and licensure to command a merchant ship.

Related Phrases

• To captain a ship: The verb form meaning to act as the captain or commander of a vessel.
  • She will captain the new container ship on its maiden voyage.

Related Idioms

• Captain of industry: This idiom refers to a powerful business leader. It is related metaphorically, drawing on the concept of command and leadership associated with a "sea captain," but applies to the business world.
  • He was regarded as a captain of industry for his role in building the railroad network.

Noun

1. an officer who is licensed to command a merchant ship