Landlubber: meaning, definitions and examples
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landlubber
[ˈlændˌlʌbər ]
Definition
nautical term
The term 'landlubber' refers to someone who is inexperienced or unfamiliar with the sea or sailing. This term is often used in a somewhat derogatory manner by sailors to describe those who prefer the comforts of land and lack sailing skills. Landlubbers may appear awkward or out of place on a boat, and their lack of nautical knowledge can lead to humorous or complicated situations. The word emphasizes the contrast between seasoned mariners and novices who are not accustomed to life on the water.
Synonyms
greenhorn, inexperienced sailor, land lover, novice, rookie.
Examples of usage
- As a landlubber, I struggled to find my sea legs.
- The sailors poked fun at the landlubber who couldn't tie a proper knot.
- She felt like a landlubber during her first boat ride.
- The captain avoided bringing a landlubber on long voyages.
- Landlubbers are often surprised by the challenges of sailing.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word combines 'land', referring to solid ground, with 'lubber', which is an old term meaning someone clumsy or awkward.
- Usage dates back to the 17th century, primarily among sailors to describe those who were inexperienced with maritime life.
- Originally, it was a derogatory term used by sailors to mock those who preferred the comforts of land over the adventure of the sea.
Nautical Culture
- In sailing communities, 'landlubber' contrasts sharply with 'salty', a term used for those experienced and comfortable on the water.
- The term has been popularized in literature and film, often used for comedic effect to highlight a character's lack of sea skills.
- Variations of the term exist in different cultures, showcasing how maritime jargon evolves within local contexts.
Pop Culture
- Animated movies like 'The Little Mermaid' feature characters who are often depicted as landlubbers when adapting to life under the sea.
- Pirate-themed stories frequently use the term to characterize land-dwellers as naive, creating a humorous clash between sea life and land life.
- The term inspired popular songs in the sea shanty genre, where sailors would express their disdain for those unfamiliar with maritime traditions.
Psychology
- Being labeled a landlubber may create feelings of insecurity or exclusion for individuals in predominantly maritime environments.
- The term highlights how self-identity can shift in specialized communities, affecting one’s sense of belonging.
- People often adapt their self-image when exposed to new cultures, like navigating from land to sea, pushing them to overcome the landlubber label.
Literature
- In novels like 'Treasure Island', the contrast between experienced sailors and landlubbers adds depth to character development and conflicts.
- Classic tales and folklore often employ landlubber characters to enhance the theme of adventure, showcasing growth through challenges.
- Fiction frequently uses this dichotomy as a metaphor for personal growth, where landlubbers must learn and adapt to thrive in unfamiliar situations.
Translations
Translations of the word "landlubber" in other languages:
🇵🇹 marinheiro inexperiente
🇮🇳 जमीनी व्यक्ति
🇩🇪 Landratte
🇮🇩 penjaga darat
🇺🇦 сухопутний житель
🇵🇱 gruntownik
🇯🇵 陸の住人
🇫🇷 terrestre
🇪🇸 tierra
🇹🇷 karasal
🇰🇷 육지인
🇸🇦 مقيم على اليابسة
🇨🇿 pevninský
🇸🇰 pevninský
🇨🇳 陆地人
🇸🇮 kopneni
🇮🇸 landkall
🇰🇿 жер үсті
🇬🇪 მიწის ადამიანი
🇦🇿 quru adam
🇲🇽 tierra