powder monkey

noun

1. (formerly) a boy employed on warships to carry gunpowder from the magazine to the guns.
2. powderman ( def 1 ).

powder monkey

noun

1. (formerly) a boy who carried powder from the magazine to the guns on warships

Word History and Origins

Origin of powder monkey¹

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

The powder monkey rushed up with the fire, and then the cannon began to bark, I tell you.

From Project Gutenberg

But his station in action was on the forecastle, where he was powder-monkey for the two forward guns.

From Project Gutenberg

No wonder that the poor illiterate powder-monkey was unable to see the difference in the degree of guilt.

From Project Gutenberg

No one ever got a more royal welcome than did Bob, the powder-monkey, on his return to the Lively Bee.

From Project Gutenberg

A small crew was placed in charge, commanded by Tempest, and included the powder-monkey, our old friend Bob.

From Project Gutenberg