Jetsam Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jetsam

[ˈjɛt.səm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

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.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

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Historical References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.

Origin of 'jetsam'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'jetsam' comes from the Middle English term 'jettesam,' which itself originates from the Old French 'jeter,' meaning 'to throw.' The term specifically refers to goods that are intentionally cast overboard to reduce the vessel's weight and improve buoyancy during distress. Historically, the practice of jettisoning cargo has been used by sailors for centuries, particularly in storms or when a ship was in danger of sinking. As maritime laws developed, the distinction between jetsam and flotsam became important for legal purposes, especially in cases related to shipping insurance and property rights. The concept of jetsam not only highlights the dangers faced at sea but also underscores the legal complexities surrounding shipwrecks and the abandonment of property in maritime contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,250, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.