skipper
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈskɪpər/
KK: /ˈskɪpər/
noun
Definition
A person who is in charge of a ship or boat, responsible for its operation and navigation.
Example
The skipper guided the boat safely through the stormy waters.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new skipper for our sailing club?
No, I haven't! Who is it?
It's someone with a lot of experience on the water.
That's great! I can't wait to see how they lead the team.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
captain
leader
director
Antonyms
follower
subordinate
crewman
transitive verb
Definition
To be the captain or leader of a boat or ship, responsible for its navigation and crew.
Example
He will skipper the yacht during the race.
Tense Forms
Past: skipped
Past Participle: skipped
Conversation
Are you excited for the sailing trip this weekend?
Definitely! I can't wait to skipper the boat again.
I'll be glad to help out with the sails while you take charge.
Root Explanation
Skipper originates from the Middle Dutch word 'schipper', meaning a shipmaster or captain. The term is derived from 'schip' (meaning ship) and the suffix '-per', which denotes a person associated with a specific action or occupation. Thus, a skipper is a person who is in charge of a ship.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'ship' ('schip') and remember that a 'skipper' is the person in charge of that ship.
Visually Confused Words
skiepper
sipper
kipper
swipper
snipper
slipper
skieppe
shipper