Nautical: meaning, definitions and examples

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nautical

 

[ ˈnɔːtɪkəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

related to sailing or ships

Relating to ships, sailors, or navigation on the sea. Nautical skills are essential for anyone wanting to work on a boat. Nautical charts are used by sailors to navigate the oceans.

Synonyms

maritime, naval, seafaring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nautical

Used to describe items, activities, or experiences related to sailors, navigation, and, generally, the operation of ships.

  • She bought some nautical-themed decorations for the sailor's birthday party.
  • His interest in nautical charts and maps led him to a career in marine surveying.
maritime

Typically refers to anything connected with the sea, especially in the context of commerce, navigation, and shipping.

  • The country has a thriving maritime industry that plays a significant role in its economy.
  • Maritime law is a complex field that deals with issues related to shipping and oceanic activities.
naval

Specifically used in relation to a nation's navy, the military branch responsible for naval warfare and defense.

  • The naval base is located in a strategic position to protect the coastline.
  • He has served in the naval forces for over a decade.
seafaring

Describes activities related to traveling by sea, especially over long distances. Often used in historical or adventurous contexts.

  • The old pirate stories are filled with tales of daring seafaring adventures.
  • She grew up in a seafaring family and has sailed across many oceans.

Examples of usage

  • He had a nautical-themed wedding on a yacht.
  • She studied nautical engineering at university.
Context #2 | Noun

a sailor or a person connected with ships or the sea

A person who is skilled in navigation and sailing on the sea. Nautical enthusiasts often participate in regattas and sailing races. The crew consisted of experienced nautical professionals.

Synonyms

mariner, sailor, seafarer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nautical

Used when referring to things related to ships, navigation, or the sea in general. Often used in technical or formal contexts.

  • The nautical charts showed the depths of the ocean.
  • He wore a nautical-themed costume for the party.
sailor

Refers to a person who works on a ship. Commonly used in everyday language and can refer to both professional and amateur individuals.

  • He spent ten years as a sailor in the navy.
  • Young sailors learned to tie knots during their first voyage.
mariner

Typically used to refer to a sailor or someone who navigates ships. Often used in literary or historical contexts.

  • The old mariner shared tales of his voyages across the seas.
  • Mariners have to be well-trained in handling various types of vessels.
seafarer

A general term for someone who regularly works on a ship or travels by sea. Often used in formal or somewhat poetic contexts.

  • Seafarers face numerous challenges during long voyages.
  • The life of a seafarer can be both adventurous and dangerous.

Examples of usage

  • The nautical guided us safely through the storm.
  • He spent his whole life as a nautical.

Translations

Translations of the word "nautical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 náutico

🇮🇳 समुद्री

🇩🇪 nautisch

🇮🇩 nautika

🇺🇦 морський

🇵🇱 nautyczny

🇯🇵 海事の

🇫🇷 nautique

🇪🇸 náutico

🇹🇷 denizcilik

🇰🇷 항해의

🇸🇦 بحري

🇨🇿 námořní

🇸🇰 námorný

🇨🇳 航海的

🇸🇮 nautični

🇮🇸 sjófarandi

🇰🇿 теңіздік

🇬🇪 საზღვაო

🇦🇿 dəniz

🇲🇽 náutico

Etymology

The word 'nautical' originated from the Latin word 'nauticus', which in turn came from the Greek word 'nautilos', meaning 'sailor' or 'ship'. The term has been used since the 17th century to describe anything related to the sea, ships, or sailing.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,495, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.