Definition

A person on a merchant ship responsible for managing the cargo and handling its sale and purchase during the voyage.

Example

The supercargo ensured that all the goods were properly loaded and documented before departure.

Conversation

Did you know that the supercargo has a crucial role on a merchant ship?

Really? I had no idea what a supercargo did.

Yeah, they're responsible for the cargo and its sale during the voyage.

That sounds like a big responsibility!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Supercargo is formed from "super-" (meaning over or above) and "cargo" (from Latin "carricare", meaning to load). The term refers to a person who oversees the cargo on a ship, thus someone who is above or in charge of the cargo.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'overseeing' ('super-') the 'load' ('cargo') on a ship — that's what a supercargo does.

Visually Confused Words