Seafarer: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

seafarer

 

[ ˈsiːˌfɛrər ]

Noun
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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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.

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

Etymology

The term 'seafarer' dates back to Old English, where 'sæfere' referred to a sailor or mariner. The word emphasizes the daring and adventurous nature of those who journey across the sea. Throughout history, seafarers have played a vital role in exploration, trade, and connecting distant lands. Their bravery and skills have been essential for the development of civilizations and the discovery of new territories.

See also: overseas, sea, seabed, seaboard, seafoam, seafood, seafront, seam, seaman, seashell, seashells, seaside.