Forecastle: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a nautical context to refer to the upper deck of a sailing ship forward of the foremast. It's often a raised structure used historically by sailors for living quarters.

• The crew rested in the forecastle after a long day of sailing.
• The captain ordered maintenance in the forecastle to be completed by sundown.

Commonly refers to the front part of a ship or boat, often used in everyday language and in all kinds of watercraft.

• The bow of the ship sliced through the waves.
• He stood at the bow and enjoyed the breeze.

Often used in a more poetic or descriptive manner to talk about the front of a ship, usually when referring to its shape or design.

• The prow of the boat cut through the water like a knife.
• From the prow, you could see dolphins swimming alongside.

Specifically refers to the deck area towards the front of the boat. It is generally used in the context of smaller boats and yachts.

• We gathered on the foredeck to watch the sunrise.
• The foredeck needs a fresh coat of paint.

The term 'forecastle' (with a different spelling, as the previous one) may refer to an area on a modern ship used for various purposes, including storage, equipment, or crew accommodation. This context usually shifts slightly, depending on the type of vessel.

• In the modern fishing vessel, the forecastle was used for storing extra nets and tackle.
• The cargo ship's forecastle offered limited space for the crew to unwind after a long shift.

This shortened and more colloquial form is often used in conversation among sailors and in maritime literature. It serves the same function as 'forecastle' but is a more informal spelling.

• The sailors gathered in the fo'c'sle to share stories of their adventures.
• He spent most of his off-duty hours resting in the fo'c'sle.