ordinary seaman

noun

1. a seaman insufficiently skilled to be classified as an able-bodied seaman. : O.D., O.S., o.s.

ordinary seaman

noun

1. a seaman of the lowest rank, being insufficiently experienced to be an able-bodied seaman

Word History and Origins

Origin of ordinary seaman¹

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example Sentences

Nils Petter, on the other hand, chatted with the men and lent a hand with the work like any ordinary seaman.

From Project Gutenberg

McKenzie, Jenkins and an ordinary seaman had finished their speed recording task and were reeling in the line.

From Project Gutenberg

This gallant officer, who in his Cambridge days was renowned as a scholar and a poet, fought as an ordinary seaman at Antwerp.

From Project Gutenberg

For sailors are of three classes—able-seaman, ordinary-seaman, and boys; and they receive different wages according to their rank.

From Project Gutenberg

Ordinary Seaman Daniel Davis, bones of wrist fractured, said to have been sustained by 203 fall from hammock.

From Project Gutenberg