Seafarer: meaning, definitions and examples

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seafarer

[ˈsiːˌfɛrər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

adventurous spirit

A seafarer is a person who travels by sea, often for long distances, showing courage and a sense of adventure. They are skilled in navigation and survival at sea, facing the challenges of the open ocean.

Synonyms

mariner, navigator, sailor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seafarer	Used generally to describe someone who travels by sea, including sailors, mariners, and even passengers on ships. He was a skilled seafarer who had crossed many oceans. The seafarers prepared for the long journey ahead.
mariner	This term is often used in a more formal or literary context to refer to sailors, especially those with significant experience or training. The mariner navigated the ship through the storm with great skill. Ancient mariners are celebrated for their contributions to early navigation.
navigator	Refers specifically to someone who is responsible for plotting the course and direction of a ship. This term highlights their role in the navigation process. The navigator calculated the best route to avoid the bad weather. In history, skilled navigators were essential for successful voyages of exploration.
sailor	Commonly used to refer to anyone who works on a ship and is involved in operating or maintaining it. This term is straightforward and widely understood. The sailors worked together to raise the sails. As a young sailor, she traveled to many countries.

Examples of usage

The seafarer embarked on a solo journey around the world.
Seafarers have a deep connection with the ocean and its mysteries.
The life of a seafarer is filled with both excitement and danger.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

profession

A seafarer is a person who works on a ship, responsible for various tasks such as operating machinery, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo.

Synonyms

deckhand, mariner, sailor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seafarer	Used to describe someone who regularly travels by sea, typically for work or exploration. He was an experienced seafarer with tales from every ocean The ancient seafarers navigated using the stars
sailor	A general term for anyone who works on or navigates boats or ships. Can also refer to someone in a navy. He joined the navy and became a sailor The sailors enjoyed a brief shore leave after months at sea
mariner	A formal term for a seaman, often used in literature or technical contexts. Can imply a skilled or seasoned sailor. The mariner recounted his adventures at sea Mariners need to keep their navigation skills sharp
deckhand	Refers to a member of the ship's crew who performs manual labor and maintenance tasks. Often entry-level. The deckhand spent the day scrubbing the deck and checking the ropes As a deckhand, he learned the basics of seafaring life

Examples of usage

The seafarer spent months at sea, away from family and friends.
Seafarers play a crucial role in global trade and transportation.
The job of a seafarer requires physical strength and mental resilience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'seafarer' comes from the Old English 'sea' meaning water and 'farer' meaning traveler.
It has been in use since at least the 14th century, showing the long history of humans traveling by sea.
Many languages have their own versions of the word; for example, Spanish has 'marinero' and French has 'marin'.

History

Seafarers played a crucial role in discoveries during the Age of Exploration in the 15th to 17th centuries.
Vikings were some of the earliest seafarers known for their longships that could sail in both deep and shallow waters.
The Polynesians are celebrated as remarkable seafarers, having navigated vast ocean distances to discover islands in the Pacific.

Cultural Significance

Songs, stories, and folklore often celebrate seafarers, like the famous tale of 'The Odyssey' where Odysseus is a master of ocean travel.
Throughout history, seafarers have been depicted as both heroic explorers and tragic figures in literature and films.
Festivals and traditions often honor seafarers, reflecting their vital contributions to trade, exploration, and maritime culture.

Modern Day

Today, seafarers are essential for global trade, as about 90% of the world's goods are transported by sea.
Technological advancements have improved the safety and efficiency of seafaring, including navigation systems like GPS.
The life of seafarers can be isolating; many spend long periods away from home, but they also form strong bonds with their crewmates.

Translations

Translations of the word "seafarer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 marinheiro

🇮🇳 नाविक

🇩🇪 Seefahrer

🇮🇩 pelaut

🇺🇦 моряк

🇵🇱 marynarz

🇯🇵 船員（せんいん）

🇫🇷 marin

🇪🇸 marinero

🇹🇷 denizci

🇰🇷 선원

🇸🇦 بحار

🇨🇿 námořník

🇸🇰 námorník

🇨🇳 水手

🇸🇮 mornar

🇮🇸 sjómaður

🇰🇿 теңізші

🇬🇪 მეზღვაური

🇦🇿 dənizçi

🇲🇽 marinero