Jetsam: meaning, definitions and examples
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jetsam
[ˈjɛt.səm ]
Definition
maritime law
Jetsam refers to goods that are thrown overboard from a ship to lighten the load in emergency situations. In maritime law, jetsam is distinguished from flotsam, which refers to goods that are floating in the water as a result of shipwreck or accident. It is often considered lost property and may have specific legal implications regarding ownership.
Synonyms
abandonment, debris, lost cargo.
Examples of usage
- The cargo became jetsam after the crew decided to throw it overboard during the storm.
- The ship's jetsam was recovered by a nearby fishing boat.
- In cases of shipwreck, jetsam may be claimed by the original owner.
- The definition of jetsam varies from that of flotsam in shipping law.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'jetsam' comes from the Middle English term 'jettesam', which means 'to throw' or 'to cast away'.
- It is often paired with 'flotsam', which refers to things floating on the water, emphasizing a contrast between what is thrown away and what remains.
Legal Definition
- In maritime law, jetsam is often distinguished from flotsam and lagan, where jetsam describes items intentionally discarded at sea.
- Legal ownership of jetsam can be complex; if found, it may belong to the original owner unless claimed under certain maritime laws.
Cultural Representations
- 'Jetsam' is often referenced in literature and art, symbolizing loss or abandonment.
- In the Disney movie 'The Little Mermaid', discarded objects from shipwrecks feature prominently, linking back to the concept of jetsam.
Environmental Impact
- Jetsam contributes to marine pollution, with many items posing risks to wildlife.
- Environmental organizations often conduct beach clean-ups to remove jetsam and protect ocean ecosystems.
Historical References
- Throughout history, sailors would often jettison cargo to lighten their ships during storms, leading to the term's nautical association.
- Historical shipwrecks have revealed a variety of jetsam, providing insights into past maritime trade and lifestyles.
Translations
Translations of the word "jetsam" in other languages:
🇵🇹 jetsam
🇮🇳 जेट्सम
🇩🇪 Jetsam
🇮🇩 jetsam
🇺🇦 джетсам
🇵🇱 jetsam
🇯🇵 ジェットサム
🇫🇷 jetsam
🇪🇸 jetsam
🇹🇷 jetsam
🇰🇷 제트샘
🇸🇦 جيستام
🇨🇿 jetsam
🇸🇰 jetsam
🇨🇳 jetsam
🇸🇮 jetsam
🇮🇸 jetsam
🇰🇿 jetsam
🇬🇪 jetsam
🇦🇿 jetsam
🇲🇽 jetsam