What does oarsman mean?
An oarsman is a person, traditionally understood to be male, who propels a boat with an oar. The role is especially associated with competitive rowing, in which several rowers coordinate the timing and force of their strokes so that the boat moves efficiently. More broadly, the word can describe anyone who rows a small or recreational boat. It is formed from “oar” and “man,” and its conventional gender marking can make “rower” a more inclusive choice in modern usage. The word is still common in sporting contexts, although it is somewhat formal and less common than the general term “rower.”
nounA person who rows a boat, especially as a member of a rowing crew. The term is traditionally used for a male rower, while “oarswoman” or “rower” may be used more generally.
- A male person who rows a boat, especially as part of a crew.
"The oarsman pulled steadily, keeping the boat perfectly aligned as it crossed the river."
"Each oarsman adjusted his stroke as the crew approached the finish line."
"The coach praised the young oarsman for his strength and discipline."
The standard plural changes “-man” to “-men”.
"The oarsmen began rowing before the race had officially started."
One person, one oar, and a shared rhythm can move a boat through water: the oarsman turns individual effort into coordinated motion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How oarsman is actually used
Traditionally masculine; “rower” is preferred when gender is irrelevant or when referring to people of any gender. In older sporting usage, the term may also be used more generally for a rowing participant.
Easily confused with oarsman
An oarsman is a male rower, whereas an oarswoman is a female rower; “rower” is the gender-neutral term.