What does sailor mean?
A sailor is someone who sails a boat or works aboard a ship, usually as part of a crew. The word commonly evokes maritime work, seamanship, and experience at sea, while also extending to people who are skilled in handling small boats or recreational sailing. In ordinary conversation, 'sailor' is broad and understandable, whereas terms such as 'mariner,' 'seaman,' and 'deckhand' may suggest particular ranks, roles, or levels of experience. The word also has a familiar cultural presence through expressions such as 'old sailor' and through clothing associated with naval life, especially sailor suits and sailor hats. Historically, the term referred broadly to people whose work and identity were connected with sailing, although modern usage is equally common in sports, travel, and nautical literature.
nounA person who works on a ship or sails a boat, especially as a member of a ship's crew. The term can also refer more broadly to someone experienced in sailing or seafaring.
- A person who sails a boat or serves aboard a ship, especially as part of a crew.
- A person who is skilled or experienced in sailing.
- An informal term for an old sailor or a person who appears to have spent much of their life at sea.
"The experienced sailor checked the ropes before the storm reached the coast."
"Each sailor took a position on deck as the vessel prepared to leave port."
"He wore an old sailor suit to the reunion, and the stories began almost immediately."
"The sailor knew that the changing weather would make the crossing difficult."
The regular plural adds -s; 'sailors' is standard in both British and American English.
"The sailors gathered on deck to hear the captain's announcement."
From the high seas to the clothing we call a sailor suit, this word has long been tied to life on the water.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sailor come from?
The word 'sailor' developed in English from an Old French form meaning a person who sails or works aboard a ship. Its formation is related to the Romance verb 'to sail' and the English word 'sail,' while the ending '-or' reflects the pattern of Romance agent nouns. Over time, the word became the standard English term for members of a ship's crew and for people experienced in sailing.
Related word forms
How sailor is actually used
In its most common sense, sailor is a general term for a person engaged in sailing or serving aboard a vessel. It can be formal or informal, and the informal expression 'old sailor' usually suggests age, long experience, or a colorful nautical manner rather than merely length of service.