IPA: /ˈsɜrfˌmæn/
KK: /ˈsɜrfˌmæn/
A person who operates a boat in rough sea conditions, especially for rescue missions.
The surfman bravely navigated the waves to save the stranded swimmers.
Surfman → The word is formed from "surf" (from the Old English *syrf*, meaning the swell of the sea) and "man" (meaning a person). A surfman is a person who works or operates in the surf, typically in a lifeguard or rescue capacity.
Think of someone who works in the 'swell of the sea' ('surf') — that's why a surfman is a person involved in activities at the beach or ocean.