steersman
/'stiəzmən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A steersman is the person who operates the steering mechanism to control the direction of a ship or boat.
Usage
The term "steersman" specifically refers to the individual whose primary duty is steering. It is a formal and traditional term, often used in nautical contexts. * The captain ordered the steersman to turn the ship hard to port to avoid the iceberg. * In the storm, the experienced steersman kept the vessel on course.
Advanced Usage
- "To take the helm": This phrase means to become the steersman or to take control. While it uses "helm" (the steering apparatus), it describes the action of the steersman.
- When the first mate fell ill, the captain had to take the helm himself.
Variants and Related Words
- Helmsman (noun): A direct synonym for steersman; the person who steers a ship.
- Pilot (noun): A person who steers a ship, especially one with specific local knowledge for navigating harbors or difficult waters. (Note: This can also refer to an aircraft operator).
- Coxswain (noun): The steersman of a small boat, especially a lifeboat or a racing shell.
Synonyms
- Helmsman
- Pilot (in nautical contexts)
Related Phrases
- At the helm: In the position of steering or controlling the ship (or an organization).
- With a new CEO at the helm, the company's strategy changed.
- To relieve the helm: To take over the steering duties from the current steersman.
- The second officer arrived to relieve the helm at midnight.
Noun
- the person who steers a ship