Definition

A student who is training to become a naval officer, usually at a naval academy.

Example

The midshipman studied hard to prepare for his future role in the navy.

Conversation

Did you hear that Jake is becoming a midshipman this year?

That's awesome! I know he has always wanted to join the navy.

Yeah, I think it will be a great opportunity for him.

Definitely, and he'll learn so much at the academy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Midshipman → It is formed from "mid-" (meaning middle) and "ship" (from Old English "scip", meaning vessel or boat) and "man" (meaning a person). The term refers to a person who is in training or serving in the middle ranks of a ship's crew.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is a 'person' ('man') in the 'middle' ('mid-') of a 'ship' — that's why a midshipman is a trainee or junior officer on a ship.

Visually Confused Words