Helmsmen: meaning, definitions and examples
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helmsmen
[ ˈhɛlmzˌmɛn ]
nautical term
A helmsman is a person who steers a ship or a boat. The helmsman is responsible for controlling the vessel's direction and ensuring safe navigation, typically by operating the steering mechanism, which can be a wheel or a tiller.
Synonyms
captain, navigator, operator, steersman.
Examples of usage
- The helmsman expertly navigated the stormy seas.
- As a seasoned helmsman, he had an instinct for the currents.
- The helmsman adjusted the sails to catch the wind better.
- She took her position as the helmsman on the yacht with confidence.
Translations
Translations of the word "helmsmen" in other languages:
🇵🇹 timoneiro
🇮🇳 कर्णधार
🇩🇪 Steuermann
🇮🇩 nahkoda
🇺🇦 керманич
🇵🇱 sternik
🇯🇵 操縦士
🇫🇷 barreur
🇪🇸 timonel
🇹🇷 kaptan
🇰🇷 조타수
🇸🇦 قائد السفينة
🇨🇿 kormidelník
🇸🇰 kormidelník
🇨🇳 舵手
🇸🇮 helmsman
🇮🇸 stýrismaður
🇰🇿 кемемен
🇬🇪 კაპიტანი
🇦🇿 kapitan
🇲🇽 timón
Etymology
The term 'helmsman' originates from Middle English, derived from the combination of 'helm', referring to the steering apparatus of a ship, and 'man', indicating a person. The word 'helm' itself can be traced back to Old English 'helma', which meant a rudder or steering gear, and is related to various Germanic languages that have similar words indicating steering devices. Over time, the role of a helmsman has become essential in maritime operations, embodying the skills needed for navigation and control over a vessel. The responsibilities of a helmsman have evolved with technology yet remain pivotal in both traditional sailing and modern navigation practices.