Shanty: meaning, definitions and examples
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shanty
[ ˈʃænti ]
sea songs
Shanties are traditional work songs sung by sailors and laborers to coordinate their efforts while working. These songs often have a call-and-response structure, making them easy to sing while performing physical tasks. Shanties were used on ships to keep the crew in rhythm while hoisting sails, hauling ropes, and performing other tasks.
Synonyms
sea song, work song
Examples of usage
- The sailors sang shanties to synchronize their movements while raising the anchor.
- Listening to shanties helped the laborers keep a steady pace while working in the fields.
Translations
Translations of the word "shanty" in other languages:
🇵🇹 barraco
🇮🇳 झोंपड़ी
🇩🇪 Hütte
🇮🇩 gubuk
🇺🇦 халупа
🇵🇱 szopa
🇯🇵 バラック
🇫🇷 baraque
🇪🇸 choza
🇹🇷 baraka
🇰🇷 오두막
🇸🇦 كوخ
🇨🇿 chatrč
🇸🇰 chatka
🇨🇳 棚屋
🇸🇮 baraka
🇮🇸 kofi
🇰🇿 лашык
🇬🇪 ქოხი
🇦🇿 barak
🇲🇽 choza
Word origin
The term 'shanty' is believed to have originated from the French word 'chanter,' which means 'to sing.' Sailors from different nationalities brought their musical traditions onboard ships, leading to the development of sea shanties. These songs not only helped coordinate work efforts but also served as a form of entertainment during long voyages at sea.