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Lubber: meaning, definitions and examples

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lubber

 

[ ˈlʌbər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

nautical term

A lubber is a term primarily used in nautical contexts to describe someone who is clumsy or awkward, particularly in the use of a ship. It can also refer to a person who lacks experience or skill in sailing. The term often carries a humorous or derogatory connotation. Lubbers may find it difficult to navigate or perform tasks that require agility on a boat.

Synonyms

amateur, novice, rookie.

Examples of usage

  • The crew laughed at the lubber who couldn't tie a knot.
  • As a lubber, he struggled to climb the rigging.
  • She felt like a lubber when the captain shouted orders.

Translations

Translations of the word "lubber" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tolo

🇮🇳 बेवकूफ

🇩🇪 Trottel

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 недоумок

🇵🇱 głupek

🇯🇵 間抜け

🇫🇷 imbécile

🇪🇸 tonto

🇹🇷 aptal

🇰🇷 바보

🇸🇦 أبله

🇨🇿 hlupák

🇸🇰 hlupák

🇨🇳 傻瓜

🇸🇮 bedak

🇮🇸 heimskur

🇰🇿 надан

🇬🇪 ბრიყვი

🇦🇿 axmaq

🇲🇽 tonto

Etymology

The word 'lubber' originates from the Middle English word '.lober' which meant 'clumsy person' and is believed to have roots in the Old Norse word 'lubbi', meaning 'lazy' or 'clumsy'. It is closely related to the words 'lump' and 'lumber', which convey a sense of heaviness or awkwardness. The maritime use of 'lubber' emerged in the late 16th century, connecting the term more specifically to individuals who were inexperienced at sea. Historical texts often depict lubbers as land-dwellers who ventured aboard ships, characterized by their lack of nautical skills. Over time, while the term has become less common, it remains a vivid part of nautical jargon, understood by sailors and those familiar with maritime culture.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,162, 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.