Naval College Terminology
- Above Board
- Honest. The term originates from the days when pirates would hide most of their crew behind bulwarks to lure some unsuspecting victim to think they were lightly manned. It followed that anyone who displayed his crew openly on deck was an honest seaman.
- Adrift
- A sailor is said to be adrift when he is absent, or late for muster or an appointment.
- Ahoy
- This was once the dreaded war cry of the Vikings. It is now used as a distinct nautical hail.
- Aye Aye
- Aye is old English for yes, probably taken from Latin verb aio - to affirm.
- Conning
- Derived from cunning, in reference to the skill of the master in manoeuvring his ship, especially in action.
- Dog Watch
- The watches from 1600h to 2000h daily.
- Fathom
- A measure of depth equal to six feet.
- Gangway
- Any recognised entrance to, or passage way or traffic route within a ship. Also used as an order or warning to make way.
- Heads
- A ship's toilets.
- Knot
- A measure of speed, with one knot being equal to one nautical mile per hour.
- Liberty
- Leave of less than 24 hours.
- Mayday
- The international voice distress signal.
- Number One
- The Executive Officer.
- Padre
- An affectionate slang term for a Chaplain.
- Pipe Down
- The last routine pipe of the day, after which silence is maintained throughout the messdecks until the hands are called.
- Pongo
- The sailors name for a soldier.
- Pusser
- The Supply Officer
- Swallow The Anchor
- To retire from sea service.
