slop chest

American  

noun

1. a supply of clothing, boots, tobacco, and other personal goods for sale to the crew of a ship during a voyage.

2. (formerly) a chest containing this supply.

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slop chest British  

noun

1. a stock of merchandise, such as clothing, tobacco, etc, maintained aboard merchant ships for sale to the crew Compare small stores

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Etymology

Origin of slop chest

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

But our slop chest was under water, and the tobacco utterly useless.

From The Grain Ship by Robertson, Morgan

He had no oilskins or any proper seaman's gear, except a pair of makeshift leggings from the slop chest.

From The Sailor by Snaith, J. C.

Him fella Sati buy ’m slop chest along plantation two tens pounds and one fella pound. 

From Jerry of the Islands by London, Jack

I wouldn't mind if I ware signed on regular like the rest, 'cause I could take it out the slop chest in work.

From Mr. Trunnell, Mate of the Ship "Pirate" by Hains, T. Jenkins (Thornton Jenkins)

"Five will do—or three if you have a slop chest aboard."

From Edward Barry South Sea Pearler by Becke, Louis