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

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

From Project Gutenberg

The Captain's 'slop chest'—a general store, where oilskins were 'sea priced' at a sovereign, and sea-boots could be had for thirty shillings!

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

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 Project Gutenberg