Steersman: meaning, definitions and examples

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steersman

 

[ ˈstɪəzmən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

navigation

A person who steers a ship or boat.

Synonyms

helmsman, navigator, pilot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steersman

Duplicate term; refer to the first entry for 'steersman'.

helmsman

'Helmsman' is commonly used to describe the person in charge of steering a ship, particularly in larger vessels or more formal nautical contexts. It is widely recognized and used in both civilian and military maritime environments.

  • The captain trusted the helmsman to navigate through the narrow strait.
  • During the night watch, the helmsman carefully adjusted the course to avoid the reef.
pilot

'Pilot' is most commonly used to refer to the person who operates an aircraft. It can also apply to someone who guides ships through difficult waters, such as a harbor pilot. The term is widely understood and can be used in both everyday and specialized contexts.

  • The pilot announced they would be landing in 30 minutes.
  • The harbor pilot boarded the ship to guide it safely to the dock.
navigator

'Navigator' refers to the person responsible for planning the route and ensuring the safe passage of a ship, aircraft, or other mode of transportation. This role involves more strategic planning and less direct control of the vehicle's direction.

  • The navigator plotted a new course to avoid the incoming storm.
  • As the navigator of the expedition, she had to calculate the most efficient route.

Examples of usage

  • The steersman guided the vessel safely through the narrow channel.
  • The experienced steersman navigated the ship through the storm.
  • The captain appointed a new steersman for the voyage.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

A person who directs or guides others.

Synonyms

director, guide, leader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steersman

Typically used in nautical settings to describe someone who is responsible for steering a ship or boat.

  • The steersman adjusted the wheel to navigate through the storm.
  • As an experienced steersman, he guided the vessel safely to the harbor.
leader

Refers to someone who leads a group, organization, or country, often implying influence and authority.

  • The leader inspired the team to reach their goals.
  • As a natural leader, she quickly gained the respect of her peers.
guide

Used when referring to someone who shows the way or provides information, often in the context of tours or assistance.

  • Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the city.
  • She acted as a guide for new employees, helping them understand their roles.
director

Commonly used in a professional or organizational context to refer to someone who oversees and manages operations or directs a film or play.

  • The director of the company announced a new strategic plan.
  • The film director worked tirelessly to perfect every scene.

Examples of usage

  • He was the steersman of the group, always leading the way.
  • As the CEO, she acted as the steersman for the company's strategic direction.
  • The teacher served as a steersman for the students' academic progress.

Translations

Translations of the word "steersman" in other languages:

🇵🇹 timoneiro

🇮🇳 कर्णधार

🇩🇪 Steuermann

🇮🇩 jurumudi

🇺🇦 штурман

🇵🇱 sternik

🇯🇵 舵手 (かじしゅ)

🇫🇷 barreur

🇪🇸 timonel

🇹🇷 dümen adamı

🇰🇷 키잡이

🇸🇦 ربان

🇨🇿 kormidelník

🇸🇰 kormidelník

🇨🇳 舵手 (duòshǒu)

🇸🇮 krmar

🇮🇸 stýrimaður

🇰🇿 рульдік

🇬🇪 გემის მართვის მძღოლი

🇦🇿 sükançı

🇲🇽 timonel

Etymology

The word 'steersman' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'styrian' which means 'to guide or govern'. The term evolved over time to refer to a person who steers a ship or boat. The role of a steersman has been essential in navigating vessels safely through waterways, making it a crucial position in maritime history.

See also: steer, steering, steers.