sea lawyer

noun

, Nautical Slang.

1. a sailor inclined to question or complain about the orders given.

sea lawyer

noun

1. slang.
   nautical a contentious seaman

Word History and Origins

Origin of sea lawyer¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Ezra was still thinking it over when the captain told him to harness Sea Lawyer for a drive to Endicutt.

From Project Gutenberg

A supposed grievance arises, the men have a meeting, and the sea-lawyer begins to stir them up, big in his opportunity.

From Project Gutenberg

Something of a sea-lawyer, he is one of the sharpest-brained—I don't say deepest-thinking—men I have ever come across.

From Project Gutenberg

In such manner John Lewis, commonly known as the "sea-lawyer," settled the matter out of hand.

From Project Gutenberg

I decided that now was the time to take care of this sea lawyer.

From Project Gutenberg