boat
swain
Plural
boatswains
1
a petty officer on a warship responsible for rigging, anchors, boats, and deck equipment
- The boatswain oversaw the repair of the ship's rigging after it was damaged in the storm.
- As boatswain, he was responsible for ensuring that the anchors were properly stowed and ready for use at a moment's notice.
- The boatswain directed the crew in launching the ship's boats for a search and rescue mission.
- He earned the respect of his crewmates through his skillful handling of the ship's deck equipment as boatswain.
- The boatswain's whistle signaled the start of the workday for the crew, who quickly assembled to receive their assignments.