seaman
UK: ˈsiːmən | US: ˈsiːmən
n. a sailor or mariner, especially one who works on a ship
n. (historical) a rank in the navy below petty officer
The word "seaman" is a straightforward compound of "sea" (Old English sǣ, meaning "large body of water") and "man" (Old English mann, meaning "human"). It emerged in Middle English (c. 1200) to describe someone who works or travels on the sea. The term reflects the practical naming tradition of combining natural elements ("sea") with human roles ("man"), similar to "fisherman" or "landsman." Its meaning has remained consistent, though its usage has become more specialized in modern contexts (e.g., naval ranks).
The experienced seaman guided the ship through the storm.
He joined the navy as a young seaman and rose through the ranks.
The life of a seaman in the 18th century was harsh and dangerous.
She was the only female seaman on the cargo vessel.
The seaman tied the ropes securely to the dock.