Jack-tar meaning

Jack-tar refers to a sailor or seaman, with tar emphasizing their role in working with tar on ships.


Jack-tar definitions

Word backwards rat-kcaj
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division jack-tar (2 syllables)
Plural The plural of the word jack-tar is jack-tars.
Total letters 7
Vogais (1) a
Consonants (5) j,c,k,t,r

Jack-tar is a colloquial term used to refer to sailors or seamen. The term has its origins in the British Royal Navy, where it was used to describe the common sailors who manned the ships. The term has since been adopted more broadly to refer to sailors of any nationality.

Origins of the Term

The term "jack-tar" is believed to have originated in the 17th or 18th century and is thought to be a combination of "Jack," a common name for sailors, and "tar," which refers to the tar used to waterproof the seams of wooden ships. Sailors would often be covered in tar from their work on the ships, leading to the nickname "jack-tar."

Life at Sea

Life as a jack-tar was often grueling and dangerous. Sailors faced long hours of hard work, harsh living conditions, and the constant threat of injury or death. However, being a jack-tar also offered a sense of adventure and camaraderie that was unique to seafaring life.

Roles and Responsibilities

Jack-tars were responsible for a variety of tasks on board ship, including hoisting sails, steering the ship, and maintaining the ship's equipment. They worked in all weather conditions and were expected to be skilled in a variety of tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the ship.

In conclusion, jack-tar is a term that has a rich history in seafaring culture, used to refer to the sailors who braved the seas to keep the ships running smoothly. While life as a jack-tar was challenging, it was also filled with adventure and a sense of camaraderie among fellow sailors.


Jack-tar Examples

  1. The old sailor was known as a seasoned jack-tar.
  2. The crew relied on the experienced jack-tar to navigate through the storm.
  3. The captain praised the young sailor for quickly learning the ways of a jack-tar.
  4. Jack-tar skills are essential for any seafarer seeking a successful career.
  5. The legendary pirate was rumored to have once been a humble jack-tar.
  6. The jack-tar's strong work ethic inspired the rest of the crew.
  7. The captain trusted the jack-tar to lead the night watch.
  8. During the long voyage, the jack-tar entertained the crew with tales of the sea.
  9. The merchant ship was in need of an experienced jack-tar to join their crew.
  10. The young sailor aspired to become a respected jack-tar like his mentor.


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  • Updated 31/03/2024 - 14:03:59