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Mutineer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mutineer

[ˌmjuːtɪˈnɪr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rebellious sailor

A mutineer is an individual who participates in a rebellion against the authority of a captain or other leader, especially on a ship or in a military unit. This act of revolt is often motivated by dissatisfaction with leadership, conditions, or treatment. Mutineers may attempt to overthrow their leaders, taking control of a vessel or unit in a dramatic and aggressive manner. Historically, mutinies have played significant roles in naval history and can lead to severe consequences for those involved, including punishment or execution.

Synonyms

insurgent, rebel, revolutionary, traitor.

Examples of usage

  • The mutineers seized control of the ship.
  • After weeks of hardship, the sailors became mutineers.
  • The crew's discontent turned them into mutineers.
  • The captain faced the mutineers in a tense standoff.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term traces back to the Latin word 'mutinare', which means 'to rebel' or 'to revolt'.
  • Mutinies have played crucial roles in various historical events, including the infamous mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789.
  • The concept of mutiny has existed for centuries, with notable instances recorded in ancient civilizations such as Rome.

Literature

  • Mutineers often symbolize a fight against oppression or injustice in novels, highlighting the struggle for freedom.
  • Famous literary works like 'Lord of the Flies' explore themes of rebellion and the breakdown of order among teenagers.
  • In 'Moby Dick', the character Queequeg is viewed as a mutineer against societal norms, emphasizing personal loyalty.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Pirates of the Caribbean' depict mutineers as adventurous characters, often seeking treasure or freedom.
  • The term is frequently used in video games, especially in strategy or role-playing games, to denote characters that rebel against authority.
  • Musicians sometimes identify as mutineers when they refuse to conform to industry standards, celebrating non-traditional artistic expression.

Psychology

  • People who become mutineers often experience a shift in their moral compass, challenging authority for perceived ethical reasons.
  • Studies suggest that group dynamics can influence the likelihood of mutiny, particularly when collective identity strengthens.
  • The psychology behind rebellion often involves feelings of injustice and the desire for empowerment among group members.

Origin of 'mutineer'

The word 'mutineer' originates from the early 17th century, derived from the French term 'mutin', which means 'rebellious' and is a form of 'mutiner', to mutiny. The root can be traced back further to the Latin word 'mutinari', meaning 'to change, to alter'. In maritime contexts, mutinies have been documented for centuries, often arising in times of war or hardship when sailors felt oppressed or poorly treated. Famous mutinies, such as the mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789, have shaped public perceptions of mutineers as both heroic figures standing against tyranny and villains disrupting order. Over time, the term has broadened in scope, applying to any individual who rebels against established authority in various contexts, including military and political arenas.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,181, 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.