Definition

A person in charge of the equipment and crew on a ship, responsible for the maintenance of the vessel and the supervision of the deck crew.

Example

The bosun called the crew to prepare the ship for departure.

Conversation

Have you ever met a bosun on a ship?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they have a really important job.

Yeah, they manage the deck crew and keep everything running smoothly.

That sounds challenging but also really interesting!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Bosun** → The word 'bosun' originates from the Middle English 'boosun', which is a contraction of 'boatswain' (from Old French 'boscin', meaning a person in charge of a ship's equipment and crew). The term refers to a ship's officer responsible for the maintenance of the vessel and its crew.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'boatswain' as the person in charge of the ship's equipment and crew — that's why 'bosun' refers to this important role on a ship.

Visually Confused Words