What is the issue?

This curious observation stems from a week spent sailing around The Solent with a friend on the south coast of England. As we chatted from morning till night, we began noticing recurring phrases we used in non sailing related discussions stemmed from the marine. These phrases kept halting our conversations, as we started to increasingly identify the sailing jargon that had become common sayings, and started to wonder about it.

Why address this?

Here's an opportunity to delve into these linguistic curiosities and, with a bit of insight, annoy people who've grown weary of your sailing stories. Armed with these insights you can use their own phrases to turn countless conversations back to sailing by pointing out the maritime origins.

How to address this?

Numerous common phrases have their roots in maritime language, particularly from the British Navy, which played a pivotal role in establishing Britain's global dominance during the 17th to 19th centuries. As sailors explored the world, they brought back not only goods but also a wealth of language and expressions that have permeated society.

This cultural exchange, as sailors interacted with diverse cultures and communities, led to the integration of nautical terms and phrases into the English language. This rich maritime legacy continues to shape our communication to this day. Much of which sails right over our heads.


UNEXPECTED MARINE ORIGINS
BEAR UP UNDER THE STRAIN
Today, "bearing up under the strain" signifies enduring or facing hardship with courage and a positive attitude. Originating from Old English and Middle English (circa 1225-1813), "bear up" was initially used transitively to mean "to lift or raise something upward."

The term was quickly adopted in sailing to describe a specific technique for navigating heavy weather. The helmsman would steer the vessel into the wind, causing the sails to stall and reduce wind pressure. This manoeuvre, also known as "coming up" or "luffing up," allowed the boat to recover from strong gusts and prevent broaching.

FEELING BLUE
Today, "feeling blue" is a casual way to say you're experiencing sadness or low spirits. It's a general term for sadness, rather than implying a serious medical condition like clinical depression. Essentially, it's used to describe a temporary low mood. For example, you might feel blue after a disappointing event or when you're missing someone.

Historically, when a ship lost its captain or another high-ranking officer at sea, a blue stripe was painted along its hull to symbolise mourning. This likely contributed to the association of blue with sadness and loss, eventually leading to the expression 'feeling blue'.

BROKE
The term "broke," in the sense of being insolvent or without money, comes from the past participle of the verb "to break." It originated from Old English "brecan," meaning "to divide solid matter violently into parts or fragments." The extension of this meaning to "insolvent" was first recorded in 1716, while the term "broken" in this sense is attested from the 1590s. Although the term's origin does not have nautical origins, its latter use in naval court-martial procedures would set it on its path to becoming another popular expression that thrived afloat and eventually made its way ashore.

The British Royal Navy had many traditions involving swords. In some cases, valuable dress swords were given to officers in recognition of bravery or distinguished service. This term stems from the practice of Cashiering (or degradation ceremony), which was the ritual dismissal of an individual from a position of responsibility for a breach of discipline. In the British naval court-martial procedure, officers were required to lay their swords on the court table as a symbol of putting their commission and reputation on hold. The officer would be forced to leave the Royal Navy Service if found guilty in a court-martial. A guilty verdict procedure would be symbolically then recognised by turning the tip of the sword towards the accused. The sword was then broken, and the officer broke. These ceremonial practices involving swords in court martial were active until 2004 when they were abolished in the UK following human rights concerns.

BY AND LARGE
First recorded in Mariners Magazine in 1669, "Thus you see the ship handled in fair weather and foul, by and large," the term "by and large" originally referred to a ship that sails in winds alternately close-hauled and with the wind abaft the beam.

A ship sailing close-hauled has its sails tightly drawn in to sail as directly into the wind as possible, typically within about 45 degrees of the wind's direction. This is referred to as "by the wind." In contrast, "large" refers to a point of sail where the wind is abaft the beam, or behind the ship. In this position, the vessel can set as much sail as possible to capture the wind, making its sail plan "large."

Therefore, from a nautical perspective, "By and large, the ship handled very well" means that, overall, and considering all factors, the ship performed well in a range of wind conditions. It also hints at the ship's versatility in handling different sail configurations to achieve optimal performance.

HAND OVER FIST
Today, the term 'hand over fist' means achieving something quickly and efficiently, often used to describe making money at a fast pace. Originally, this term referred to the rapid action of pulling ropes on a ship and the great effort required to swiftly draw the line.

HARD UP
'Hard up' today means being in a state of need or desperation, often financially, resulting from a lack of resources or options or the work that would have made these available. The term is built upon an aggregation of nautical terms.

Firstly, in close-hauled sailing, when a vessel is brought 'up' close to the wind, the sails are drawn in tight so the boat can sail as close to the wind as possible, and the blocks (pulleys) would be pulled 'hard-up'. So when sailing as close to the wind as possible, the most uncomfortable and challenging sailing position for a vessel, the term 'hard up' describes the state and loads exerted on the blocks and rigging.

This, most likely, conjoined with the adjacent term 'hard over,' which describes turning the ship's helm as far as it can go. When the 'helm hard over' order is issued, it means positioning the tiller/wheel as far as it can go in a particular direction. A command that is only typically used in situations requiring a rapid change of course, such as avoiding a collision, making a sharp manoeuvre in tight quarters or responding to an emergency.

Finally, the term 'hard up' was most likely a shortening of the whole nautical saying 'hard up in a clinch and no knife to cut the seizing'. A term refers to a challenging, inescapable situation in which one is trapped without any way to resolve the problem with nothing but grief.

HAZING
Today, "hazing" refers to initiation through the practice of subjecting someone to humiliating or abusive tasks.

The word "haze" originates from the Middle French term "haser," which means "to irritate" or "annoy." This points to a fundamental notion of causing distress. The word was subsequently adopted to describe a form of initiation or punishment wherein new sailors were subjected to hard labour and humiliation. Although it was meant to foster bonding with the crew, showcase effort, and exhibit perseverance, much of this "hazing" consisted of sheer harassment involving arduous and often pointless tasks. This maritime usage is a significant factor in the evolution of the word today.

A FIGUREHEAD
Used today to describe a leader who holds a position of authority but has limited actual power. They are recognised as a leader "in name only" but do not have substantial decision-making influence. Examples include many constitutional monarchs and ceremonial presidents who serve as symbolic representatives of an organisation or country.

The term originated from the carved wooden sculptures, or figureheads, placed at a sailing ship's front (bow) from the 16th to early 20th centuries. They were usually well-endowed female figures but not always, as they could also be saints, national emblems, mythological figures or persons after whom the ship was named. Figureheads were believed to embody the ship's spirit and offer protection. Sailors were superstitious about figureheads and considered them crucial to a ship's luck.

CUT AND RUN
Today, "cut and run" possesses several nuanced meanings. Informally, it signifies abruptly abandoning a problematic situation. By extension, it also refers to leaving a situation or arrangement as soon as difficulties arise. For example, an investor might "cut and run" when a company's stock price declines. The phrase can be used critically in relationships, implying the abandonment of commitments when challenges emerge. In political discourse, it is often employed pejoratively, suggesting a panicked and cowardly retreat.

The phrase originates directly from nautical practices. It is a shortened form of earlier phrases like "cut and run away" and "cut and run off," describing the practice of a vessel making a hasty departure by severing the anchor rope and sailing away before the wind. This practice was employed when a ship needed to escape danger quickly. In such situations, there might be insufficient time to weigh anchor through the usual, time-consuming process. To prevent damage to the ship and ensure a swift escape, the crew would decide to "cut" the anchor free and "run" for safety. If possible, a buoy could be attached to the anchor line so that it might be retrieved later.

However, the primary emphasis lies on the quick and decisive action of cutting loose, rather than any plans for the subsequent recovery of the anchor. Hence, the nautical practice is the source of the modern usage of "cut and run," even if it implies leaving something behind.

LETTING THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG
The cat here is the 'cat o' nine tails' a whip consisting of nine knotted cords or lashes attached to a handle widely used for corporal punishment, especially in the Royal Navy and military contexts. The nine cords are said to represent the nine lives of a cat and the marks left by the whip were thought to resemble scratches from a cat's claws.

The 'cat-o'-nine-tails' was stored in a red baize bag to conceal the blood drawn on its sack, and a sailor who revealed another's transgressions would be 'letting the cat out of the bag'.

NOT ENOUGH ROOM TO SWING A CAT
Now used to describe a room say, "There isn’t enough room to swing a cat in here!" the term originated from the British Navy's harsh punishment by 'cat-o'-nine-tails' and the space required to swing it.

The cat-o'-nine-tails first appeared in 1665 to deal out punishments for sailor absences, drunkenness, or disobedience. One such punishment involved tying the offender to the ship's mast and flogging them with a whip-like instrument known as the 'cat-o'-nine-tails,' administered by another crew member, often the Bosun's Mate.

Due to the length of the whip, these floggings could not be carried out below deck. Instead, they occurred on the deck, providing ample space for the ship’s company to be mustered to witness the punishment. It is also used to describe the act of the crew crowding in around the event so that the whip hand might not have enough room to get the most swing out of the 'cat o’ nine tails'.

IF YOU SCRATCH MY BACK, I'LL SCRATCH YOURS
This is once again related to the British Navy's harsh punishments for sailors. Crew members often struck secret deals to administer the lash lightly, merely 'scratching' the offender's back. This ensured reciprocal treatment should they fall victim to the punishment in the future.

OVER THE BARREL
Another term is rooted in the British Navy's harsh disciplinary measures. It refers to the location where floggings were carried out, often on a grating, a mast, or, as the name suggests, over the barrel of a deck cannon.

SQUARE MEAL
The phrase "square meal" originates from the distinctive square-shaped food plates used by British Navy sailors. These plates were designed with a raised edge, often called a "fiddle," to prevent food from spilling in rough seaways.

The square design also served as a practical measure to limit portion sizes. As these plates were typically used for the most substantial meal of the day, the term "square meal" came to symbolize a hearty and satisfying meal. Hence, a decent meal aboard was a 'square meal. '

FIDDLING
The term "fiddling," often associated with petty dishonesty, also has its roots in the British Navy's Square Plate. It refers to the act of a sailor overfilling their square plate, taking more food than their fair share. The excess food would spill or sit on the raised edge or "fiddle" of the plate, hence the term "on the fiddle." This practice was considered a minor offence and could be subject to punishment.

SLUSH FUND
A slush fund is a fund or account used for miscellaneous income and expenses, which are sometimes illicit. The 'slush' heralds back to the slushy slurry of fat obtained by boiling or scraping the empty salted meat storage barrels of navy boats. This 'slush' was often sold ashore to tallow makers and the money so derived became known as a 'slush fund'.

The money generated from these sales was kept separate from the ship's official accounts and used to make minor purchases for the crew. Over time, the term "slush fund" has evolved to describe any fund, often secretive, used for miscellaneous or questionable expenses.

BITTER END
"I've reached the bitter end" originates from the nautical "bitter end" which refers to the inboard end of a ship's cable, typically secured to strong points known as bitts. When a ship's anchor cable is fully deployed, it has reached its bitter end. Thus, the expression is used metaphorically to signify a situation or resource that has been exhausted.

BITTER AND TWISTED
The term "bitter and twisted" refers to the ship's anchor line, often referred to as the "bitter end," which can become tangled or knotted, making it extremely difficult to untangle. This arduous task likened to a "devil of a job", has been metaphorically applied to describe a person with a spiteful or resentful nature.

COPPER-BOTTOMED
Today, "copper-bottomed" is often used in financial and business contexts to describe something that is exceptionally stable or safe. For example, one might say, "This is a great deal—high return with no risk—it's copper-bottomed," suggesting that an investment or business proposition is highly reliable and secure.

The term "copper-bottomed" originates from a process first introduced in 1761 for ships of the British Navy. This involved fitting copper sheathing plates to the underside of their wooden hulls. The primary purpose was to protect the wooden planking from attack by Teredo worms (also known as shipworms), a type of bivalve clam. By significantly reducing barnacle and weed growth, copper sheathing increased the ship's speed and manoeuvrability.

The British Navy initially introduced this innovation to protect their ships involved in the West African slave trade and to defend Caribbean sugar plantations from competitors. The enhanced manoeuvrability quickly proved decisive in several Caribbean naval battles, significantly impacting the regional balance of power during the 18th and 19th centuries. Most notably, in the Battle of the Saintes (1782) during the American Revolutionary War, the British fleet, led by Admiral Sir George Rodney, decisively defeated a French fleet under the command of Comte de Grasse. The British fleet's clean, copper-bottomed ships were significantly faster and more manoeuvrable, surprising the French and providing the British with a decisive advantage in positioning and engagement. This victory was crucial as it forced the French and Spanish to abandon their planned invasion of Jamaica, a key British possession in the Caribbean.

As copper sheathing was expensive, its use on merchant ships signified a well-maintained vessel. This led to lower insurance premiums from Lloyd's of London, as these ships were considered less risky. From this practice, the phrase "copper-bottomed" emerged as an indicator of quality.
As the practice became widespread, the term "copper-bottomed" began to be used figuratively to refer to anything certain and trustworthy. Britain's status as a major naval power further reinforced the British idiomatic use of the term. This association between copper and reliability in the maritime context likely contributed to the term's adoption in financial circles.

This evolution of the term, from its literal maritime origins to its figurative use in finance and business, established "copper-bottomed" as an expression for a guaranteed worthwhile endeavour.

SQUARED AWAY
"Squared away" now figuratively means tidying, properly ordering, or preparing. The term originates from the phrase "square the yards," which refers to correctly positioning a ship's sails and rigging. This meant setting the yards (spars carrying the sails) at right angles to the keel line from bow to stern. If the spars were also set horizontally, this position was known as "square by the braces" or "square by the lifts and braces".

In the late 18th century, sailors began to add "away" to the verb "square," extending its meaning to moving or travelling directly to a destination without delay. After anchoring, "square the yards" became an instruction to clear the decks and tidy the ship so that it might be quickly turned around and put to sea again.

In the Victorian period, the term started to be used by non-sailors, evolving to mean making everything ship-shape or getting ready for action. The term became common in the armed forces, particularly in the United States. In military slang, it came to describe someone who is a good "troop" or whose performance is excellent.

The phrase's enduring popularity likely stems from its explicit imagery of precision and orderliness, qualities valued in both nautical and military contexts.

BRACING WIND
Bracing wind" refers to a strong, invigorating, and refreshing wind that makes one feel energetic and alert. The term originates from the wind's strengthening effect on a sailing ship. In nautical terms, the "braces" are the lines used to adjust the angle of the yards (horizontal spars) on square-rigged ships. "Bracing" involves adjusting these ropes to change the angle of the sails relative to the wind. As the wind increased, the crew would make the sails taut by hardening the "braces." The command to "brace" would be given when the wind strengthened or changed direction, requiring the crew to adjust the sails to adapt to the new conditions. The general meaning of "brace" aboard a vessel today is to prepare oneself for a sudden movement or surge of the vessel.

UNDER THE WEATHER
The phrase 'under the weather' describes someone feeling unwell or sick. It conveys a sense of mild illness or discomfort, typically not severe enough to require more serious medical attention.
While the precise origin of the term is somewhat unclear, it is widely accepted that it originated from the language and practices of historical sailing ships. In nautical terms, the 'weather side' refers to the side of the ship facing the wind, with the 'lee' side facing away and more sheltered.
Consequently, a crew member stationed on the weather side would experience direct exposure to these challenging conditions. They would be subjected to the constant battering of the sea and swept by the wind and ocean spray. In essence, they would be enduring the full force of the weather. Due to the relentless impact of waves and spray, this exposure could lead to discomfort, unhappiness, and fatigue.

BINGE
The term "binge" originally referred to the process of emptying a rum cask on a ship to make its storage available for refill or other purposes. The rum wasn't discarded but consumed by the crew, leading to a period of heavy drinking. Over time, this practice gave rise to the modern meaning of going on a "binge," or "binging out," referring to any period of excessive indulgence, particularly in alcohol or food.

TOUCH AND GO
Today, "touch and go" is commonly used to describe scenarios with uncertain outcomes, such as medical conditions or project deadlines. In aviation, it refers specifically to a training manoeuvre where an aircraft lands briefly and takes off again without stopping. This modern usage retains the essence of the original nautical phrase—implying fleeting contact and the potential for risk.

The original phrase refers to navigating a ship through shallow waters. It describes a situation where a ship's keel lightly scrapes the seabed without causing the vessel to stop or significantly lose speed. Progress would be made until the keel "touches" as it slows the vessel at the risk of coming to a hard grounding, narrowly avoiding disaster, and moving on, "go." Hence, things are a bit "touch and go." The term captures the precariousness of such manoeuvres, where the ship is at risk of grounding but can continue moving forward.

The earliest recorded use of "touch and go" as a general-purpose phrase dates back to a sermon by Hugh Latimer in 1549. In that sermon, it referred to briefly engaging with a topic before moving on. Over time, the phrase evolved to describe nautical situations and precarious or risky circumstances in various contexts.

CLEAN SLATE
"Clean slate" refers to starting anew or having a fresh beginning without any lingering issues or burdens from the past. It is often used in financial contexts as "wiping the slate clean" to refer to the cancellation or settlement of debts. In personal relationships, it is used to describe "starting with a clean slate" to leave behind past mistakes or disagreements.

The term originates from the helmsman's log slate, which was widely used until the late 19th or early 20th century. These slate boards, approximately 9cm x 12cm in size, were used to record the course, speed, and distances travelled during a watch. The chalked entries were wiped clean at the beginning of a new watch, allowing for fresh entries.

The introduction of more advanced navigation tools and written logs gradually phased out the use of traditional slate boards on ships. However, the expression has long since been commonly used as an idiom.

BOTTOMS’ UP!
The phrase "Bottoms Up!" as a toast dates back to at least 1875, indicating its established place in drinking culture by that time. It is commonly used today as a toast to encourage someone to finish their drink, but it has a sinister origin linked to the deceptive practices of naval recruitment in 18th and 19th century England.

Naval recruiters, known as "press gangs," would entice potential recruits with the promise of the "King's Shilling," a monetary incentive to sign up for the navy. However, they would often resort to trickery. One such tactic involved dropping a shilling into a drink, unbeknownst to the unsuspecting patron. Once the person accepted and drank from the tankard, they were considered to have accepted the King's Shilling and were legally obligated to join the Navy. To avoid falling victim to this deception, bar owners and patrons began to check the bottom of their tankards before drinking, ensuring there were no hidden coins.

The phrase "Bottoms Up!" became a cautionary reminder, urging people to examine their drinks before consuming them. While the practice of pressing has long been abolished, the phrase "Bottoms Up!" remains a popular toast, albeit with a darker historical context.

However, the veracity of this tale is questionable. While the recruitment story is captivating, there's a dearth of historical evidence to corroborate it. Some etymologists contend that the Navy possessed adequate resources to recruit sailors without resorting to deceit, suggesting that this narrative might be more myth than fact. Nevertheless, considering the prevalence of alcoholism among sailors at the time, it's plausible that the promise of free rum could have been an enticing lure to bait a trap. Ultimately, you'll have to decide for yourself.

TAKEN ABACK
The phrase "taken aback" today means to be surprised or shocked by something, often to the point of being momentarily unable to respond. It conveys a sense of being caught off guard by an unexpected event or remark. For example, one might say, "I was taken aback by her sudden decision," indicating that the decision was unexpected and startling.

The expression is directly derived from the sailing terminology of the 17th century. When a square-rigged ship attempts to tack (change its course by turning its bow into the wind), there is a risk that it may lose momentum and steerage. If it lost momentum or steerage, the wind could then fill the sails from the front or wrong side, causing them to "back" or fill with wind against the mast forcing the ship astern. Although a danger during tacks, it most often was caused by an inattentive helmsman who had allowed the ship to head up into the wind.

This situation is described as being "taken aback," where the sails are filled from the opposite side than intended, resulting in a loss of control and potentially dangerous conditions for the vessel.

BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA
The expression "between the devil and the deep blue sea" refers to a difficult situation in which a person faces two equally unpleasant or dangerous choices. It describes a predicament in which a person is stuck with two bad alternatives, and no matter what decision is made, the outcome will be negative, either in terms of risk or harm.

The origin of the phrase "between the devil and the deep blue sea" refers to a difficult-to-reach and particularly troublesome seam on a warship's wooden hull known as the "devil." The exact position of the seam is slightly unclear, but generally, the "devil" was the outermost seam between the deck planks and hull, which is typically the most prone to leaking.

There are two main ideas about its height above the waves. One suggests it could be the longest seam on the deck, closest to the waterline and most vulnerable to leaks, requiring urgent repair. So, if a sailor was working on this seam and perhaps hanging out over the side in a precarious position, he was said to be between the "devil" (the outermost seam) and the "deep blue sea" below. Another possibility is that the "devil" refers to a seam lower on the hull, where repairs would be even more challenging due to the sailor's exposure to the elements and the risk of falling overboard.

DEVIL TO PAY
The phrase "the devil to pay" today means to face serious trouble, difficulty, or repercussions for one's actions. It implies that a situation has gone awry, and there will be consequences to deal with. For example, if someone is caught doing something wrong, it can be said that "there will be the devil to pay" for their actions. The expression often conveys a sense of impending punishment or significant challenges that must be confronted due to a mistake or oversight.

The phrase has nautical connections, but "the Devil to pay" actually predates its nautical usage and originates from the idea of making a pact with the Devil, where one would have to "pay" with their soul. The earliest recorded use of this phrase dates back to 1707 in Thomas Brown's "Letters From the Dead to the Living".

The nautical connection came later. In shipbuilding, the "devil" was the long plank running from stem to stern and adjacent to the keel. The caulkers had to keep this stem waterproof by "paying" it with oakum (hemp fibres unpicked from condemned rope) and then sealing it with hot pitch.

The procedure was very difficult since this was a careened vessel's wettest and most inaccessible hull area, and sailors likely adopted the existing phrase "the Devil to pay" to describe this challenging process. "There's the Devil to pay and only half a bucket of pitch" or "There's the Devil to pay and no pitch hot" are believed to be later elaborations, not the original forms.

THREE SHEETS TO THE WIND
Describing someone as "three sheets to the wind " indicates they are very drunk or inebriated. The idiom conveys a vivid image of someone staggering or behaving erratically, similar to how a ship would move when its sails are not properly secured. Variations of the phrase, such as "four sheets to the wind," may suggest even higher levels of intoxication.

The phrase originates directly from nautical sail handling terminology and perfectly describes a sailing vessel's nautical condition and drunken state. In sailing, sheets ( ropes or lines) control a ship's sails. If three sheets are loose, the sails flap uncontrollably in the wind because they are not secured by the sheets. This results in the ship being out of control, rolling in the seaway similar to how a drunk person staggers and loses balance.

This situation implies that the vessel is out of control, much like a person who is heavily intoxicated. The expression likely emerged in the late 18th century and became popular in the early 19th century, with one of its earliest documented uses appearing in 1821.

BLAZER
The term "blazer," referring to a short, smart jacket often featuring multicoloured vertical stripes, remains prominent at the annual Henley Royal Regatta and is strongly associated with rowing and oarsmen. "Blazer" appears to have acquired its modern meaning by or before 1889, as evidenced by its first recorded use in an article in the London Daily News. The term originated with the bright red jackets worn by the Lady Margaret Boat Club members of St. John's College, Cambridge, founded in 1825. These jackets were dubbed "blazers" due to their vivid, "blazing" red colour.

The jacket made its way offshore in 1837 when the captain of HMS Blazer, presumably seeing the coincidence in the jacket's name, outfitted his crew with striped navy blue, double-breasted jackets embellished with brass Royal Navy buttons to impress Queen Victoria. The HMS Blazer crew continued to wear the "striped blue and white jackets" until 1837 when they had to surrender them to the Royal Navy's uniform standardisation process.

POURING OIL OVER TROUBLED WATERS
The idiom "pour oil on troubled waters" today means to try to calm or soothe someone or something, especially to make people stop arguing. The phrase comes directly from the practice of using oil to calm rough seas, which remains a viable strategy for storm handling to this day. This technique has been known since at least 350 BC, with Aristotle and Pliny the Elder discussing its effects. Benjamin Franklin famously investigated this phenomenon in the 18th century, conducting experiments and discussing his findings with the Royal Society.

Yachtsmen can use oil to calm waves when running downwind. However, due to environmental concerns and regulations, it is a viable survival approach that should only be considered a last-resort emergency measure. Oil bags can be trailed in the water to create a calming effect on the following waves. The oil prevents wind from getting traction along the water's surface, making it harder for the waves to form and, critically, break. The effectiveness varies depending on conditions, with deep water and free-running waves being ideal. Different oils have varying effectiveness; for instance, kerosene is practically worthless for this purpose. Yachtsmen should prioritise other storm tactics and safety measures, reserving oil use only for extreme emergencies where no other options are available. It should also be noted that a thin film of the oil will eventually make its way onto the boat when using this last resort strategy, bringing with it the added risk of a Man Overboard event.

BRISTOL FASHION
The phrase "Bristol fashion," or in full "shipshape and Bristol fashion," is used to describe anything that is in good order and well-maintained. It can be used to describe a person, a place, or a thing. For example, you might say that your house is "shipshape and Bristol fashion" if it is clean and tidy. Or, you might say that your car is "shipshape and Bristol fashion" if it is in good working order and well-maintained. It is also sometimes used to describe someone who is efficient and organized. For example, you might say your boss is 'shipshape and Bristol fashion' if they are always on top of things and never seem flustered.

The term "shipshape" has existed separately since the 17th century, referring to a tidy and orderly arrangement. The two phrases were merged in the early 19th century, forming the complete expression 'shipshape and Bristol fashion.' It meant everything neat, tidy, and seaman-like in both appearance and function, based on the reputation of ships that used to trade out of Bristol.

At this time, Bristol Harbour was a major West Coast port with a reputation for well-maintained ships. The harbour had one of the most variable tidal flows in the world, with water levels fluctuating by as much as 30 feet or nearly 10 meters between tides. Ships moored in Bristol would ground at low tide, falling to one side due to their keels. This made it necessary for ships to be very well-built and have their cargo securely stowed to withstand the stresses of the twice-daily groundings and all loose objects around the vessel to be tidied away should they go flying at low water. Ships built in "Bristol fashion" were known to hold together well, even in challenging circumstances.

Over time, the phrase "shipshape and Bristol fashion" came to be used more broadly to describe anything that was in good order, well-maintained, and with everything tidied away.

BUSKING
Today, busking refers specifically to street performances where artists entertain the public—often through music, juggling, or other acts—hoping for monetary donations. The practice retains its essence of seeking an audience and "treasure," paralleling its historical roots in piracy and exploration.

The word "busking" is believed to derive from the Spanish verb "buscar," meaning "to seek" or "to look for." It was adopted as a naval term referring to vessels, particularly pirate vessels, that would "cruise" along coastlines in search of targets to attack. The first recorded use of "busking", in the context of public performance, dates back to Great Britain in the mid-19th century, around the 1860s. Initially, it encompassed various forms of entertainment, including music and comedy, performed in public spaces to solicit money from passersby. While "busking" has evolved significantly from its origins related to piracy and nautical terminology, it still embodies the spirit of seeking engagement and reward in public spaces.

TARRED WITH THE SAME BRUSH
The term "tarred with the same brush" conveys the idea of unfairly judging or grouping individuals based on the perceived faults or behaviours of others. This phrase originated in the 17th century and is metaphorically linked to the practice of applying tar, commonly used for waterproofing ships and wooden structures. When a single brush was used to apply tar to multiple surfaces, any part that received the same brush would inevitably share the same characteristics. This led to the idea that those "tarred" together are similarly marked or stained.

The original meaning of "tarred with the same brush" likely referred to sailors who had worked together on the same ship and thus shared a common background and experiences. This implied a shared identity, not necessarily negative connotations.

The earliest recorded use of a similar expression appears in Thomas Shelton’s translation of Don Quixote in 1612, where it referred to individuals being treated uniformly due to shared characteristics. However, the modern, more negative form of "tarred with the same brush" first appeared in print in Sir Walter Scott's Rob Roy around 1818 and gained popularity in subsequent literature.

CHOCK A BLOCK
"Choc 'a' Bloc" describes any situation that is heavily congested or filled to capacity. Today, it can be used informally to describe crowded places or situations where there is little room for movement, such as streets filled with cars.

The phrase "chock-a-block" is entirely nautical and refers specifically to the mechanics of a block and tackle system used on sailing ships. The term "chock" derives from "chock-full," meaning filled to capacity or wedged in. This usage dates back to the 15th century. In nautical contexts, a "chock" refers to a wedge used to secure moving objects on a ship. The "block," in this context, refers to the pulley mechanism itself.

The term describes a situation where the two blocks of the tackle are drawn so closely together that they cannot move further, indicating that the system is fully extended and jammed tight. This usage can be traced back to at least the early 19th century, with references found in literature from that period, such as Frederick Chamier's The Life of a Sailor (1832) and Richard Henry Dana Jr.'s Two Years Before the Mast (1840).

Over time, the phrase has evolved from its specific nautical context to symbolise maximum capacity and congestion in both its original and contemporary uses.

PIPE DOWN
The phrase 'pipe down' today means an expression demanding quieting, stopping talking, or reducing noise. Its origins are nautical, stemming from the use of the boatswain's pipe on navy ships. This unique whistle relayed commands to the crew. The order to 'pipe down' was communicated through a specific series of notes played on the boatswain's pipe, a signal universally understood by sailors.

ALL DECKED OUT
In contemporary language, "to be decked out" means to be dressed in a very fancy way or to be decorated elaborately. But the term "all decked out" originates from the nautical practice of decorating ships with bunting and flags, particularly for celebrations or special occasions. This usage of "decked" dates back to at least the late 1700s, indicating a ship that is festively adorned with flying bunting as a decoration, and hence looked at its best. The term "deck" has been used since Middle English, with the earliest known uses around 1500.

POSH
The term "posh" currently refers to luxurious and elegant items and services with an upper-class association. For example, a "posh restaurant" typically offers high-quality food and a sophisticated atmosphere. It may also have a social class reference, such as denoting individuals or behaviours typical of the upper classes. For instance, someone might be described as having a "posh accent" or living in a "posh part of town," indicating a higher social status. Overall, "posh" embodies exclusivity, wealth, and refinement notions in contemporary usage.

The word "posh," truly "P.O.S.H.," is believed to be derived from the Orient and Pacific Line, describing its First Class accommodation cabin arrangements for wealthy passengers travelling on ships from Britain to India during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term was short for "Port Out, Starboard Home." This indicated that the deck cabins would be on the shadow side of the vessel in the afternoon going out (southbound) and the same coming home (northbound), thus providing the preferred cooler accommodations. This was a widely used description for booking passages, but it was not documented on tickets, marketing materials, or any official records carrying the "P.O.S.H." term.


OBVIOUS MARINE CONNECTIONS
ON THE ROCKS
When we say something is "on the rocks," it implies that the situation is facing severe difficulties, teetering on the brink of collapse, or likely to fail soon. For example, "Her marriage is on the rocks" suggests the relationship is in serious trouble and may soon end.
The phrase originally referred to a ship in danger of being wrecked by running aground on rocky shores. This metaphorical usage symbolises a situation in peril or facing a potential disaster.
However, "on the rocks" has both a nautical and a drinking tradition. The drinking-related meaning emerged in the mid-1940s, coinciding with the invention of ice cube trays. The term likely referred to ice cubes chipped from larger blocks, which appeared jagged and stone-like. Therefore, today, "on the rocks" also means, in bartending, a drink served over ice.

CLEAR THE DECKS
The term "clear the decks" means removing obstacles or distractions to prepare for an important task or event. It's often used metaphorically to signify getting ready for action by ensuring everything is in order.
The term originates from naval practices. In the days of sailing ships, sailors needed to prepare the ship by removing any unnecessary items from the deck before engaging in battle. This meant clearing away anything that could impede movement or become a hazard during combat. The goal was to ensure the deck was free of clutter so that the crew could operate effectively and safely.

LEARNING THE ROPES
"Learning the ropes" means becoming familiar with any job or activity's basic skills and procedures. The term comes from sailors needing to understand the various ropes on sailing ships. Before powered shipping ropes were essential for controlling every operation of the sails, rigging as well as mooring. New sailors, or "greenhands," had to learn how to handle and understand the complex system of ropes and knots. This training was crucial for the ship's efficient operation and the crew's safety. As these new sailors became more experienced, they were said to have "learned the ropes." Rather ironically, there are no 'ropes' on modern sailing vessels today, just various types of lines to learn.

EVERY NICE GIRL LOVES A SAILOR
The phrase "every nice girl loves a sailor" is a romantic notion often associated with the allure of the seafaring life. However, its origins are rooted in a more pragmatic and less sentimental context.

In 1809 the Waterguard, also known as the Preventative Boat Service, was formed around the British Isles and operated under Naval control from 1816 to 1822. The Waterguard was effectively a sea-based arm of revenue enforcement tasked with preventing smuggling and had nothing to do with the modern concept of lifesaving that one would think.

The unit was initially based in watchhouses around the coast, and it deployed boat crews to patrol the coast each night to detect and prevent smuggling. It moved from the navy to the control of the Board of Customs, and in 1856, control of the Coast Guard passed to the Admiralty.

To maintain their focus and integrity, these officers were frequently relocated. This practice was implemented to prevent them from forming deep ties with local communities, particularly those with smuggling sympathies. It was feared that such connections could compromise their duties or, worse, be a device used by smuggler families to marry their female members to compromise the coastguards.

The saying "every nice girl loves a sailor" emerged as a cautionary reminder to these officers. It warned against forming romantic attachments that could hinder their work and potentially lead to corruption. The authorities aimed to minimise the risk of such entanglements by frequently moving officers.

While the phrase has evolved into a popular saying, its original intent was far more practical and cautionary. It highlights the challenges faced by those tasked with enforcing the law, especially in remote and isolated locations.

IN YOUR WHEELHOUSE
The metaphorical use of "in your wheelhouse" to mean something akin to "in my neighbourhood" or "up my alley" can be traced back to at least 1896. It wasn't until the 1980s that the term evolved to its current meaning: an area or field in which a person excels. Today, "in your wheelhouse" is commonly used to describe someone's area of expertise or interest.

"Wheelhouse" originally referred to the physical structure on ships in the mid-19th century "enclosing a large wheel," such as a steering wheel on a boat or ship. The earliest recorded use of "wheelhouse" in this nautical context dates back to 1835 in Joseph Holt Ingraham's travel memoir *The South-west*, where he mentions, "The pilot (as the helmsman is here termed) stands in his lonely wheel-house."

Interestingly, this term evolved from a nautical reference to a baseball metaphor and finally to a general expression of expertise in the 1980s, showcasing the dynamic nature of language and how meanings can shift and expand over time. In the 1950s, baseball announcers and reporters began using "wheelhouse" in a new context. They applied it to describe the strike zone area where a batter could swing with the most power. The earliest citation for this baseball usage comes from a 1959 sports story in the San Francisco Chronicle: "He had a couple that came right into the wheelhouse—the kind he used to knock out of sight—and he fouled 'em off."

LOG AND BLOG
The term "log" originates from old maritime practices. A wooden chip, or log, was tossed overboard from a ship's bow. The time it took the stern to pass the floating log, measured by an hourglass or simple counting, provided a rough estimate of the ship's speed. Although still viable with experience, this method is impractical for measuring distance. It's also known as a "Dutchman's log."
Later, a triangular plank attached to a knotted cord was used. As the cord unwound, knots were counted over a fixed time interval, often 15 seconds, measured by a small hourglass. This led to the term "knot" for nautical speed. Subsequently, the Walker Log, a rotating impeller towed behind the ship, offered a more accurate method of measuring distance travelled. However, it was susceptible to damage or entanglement.

Modern impeller or electronic logs provide precise speed readings but require regular maintenance to prevent fouling by marine growth. A malfunctioning log can be hazardous, as it may underreport the distance travelled when navigating by 'Dead Reckoning', potentially leading the vessel into dangerous waters.

Historically, the log readings were noted in a physical book, which became the ship's log. This extended to encompass a broader range of operational data, including weather conditions, routine events, significant incidents, crew information, and port visits.

The term "blog" is a portmanteau of "web" and "log." Coined by Jorn Barger in 1997 to describe his website, Robot Wisdom, it was initially referred to as a digital journal or diary. While "weblog" was used earlier, "blog" became the more popular term, popularised by Peter Merholz in 1999.

ALL ADRIFT
Now used to describe someone who is aimless, without direction or purpose in life. For example, "After losing his job, he was all adrift, not knowing what he was going to do with her life."

But the term "all adrift" originated from nautical usage in the early 17th century. It combines two elements: of (i) "All" - used for emphasis to mean completely or entirely. (ii) "Adrift" - which came into use around the 1620s, derived from the prefix "a-" meaning "on" and the word "drift".
In nautical contexts, being "adrift" referred to a ship or boat floating freely without control, not anchored or moored. The term "all adrift" likely emerged as an intensified form of this concept, when the rigging after a storm has been broken or unattached, and hence be ‘all adrift’ when normal control cannot be re-established.

ALL HANDS TO THE PUMPS
In modern usage, "all hands to the pumps" is often employed in various contexts, from business emergencies to household crises, always emphasising the need for everyone to pitch in and help resolve a pressing situation.

The expression has its roots in seafaring practices. On wooden ships, it was common for some water to seep in through the hull, regardless of how well it was caulked. To prevent the ship from taking on too much water, vessels were equipped with bilge pumps to remove excess water from the hold.

However, in emergencies where a ship was taking on water rapidly and getting into trouble, in danger of sinking, the captain would call for "all hands to the pumps". This meant that every available crew member ("hand" being nautical slang for a crew member) was needed to operate the pumps and bail out water to keep the ship afloat.

SADLY UNTRUE
COLD ENOUGH TO FREEZE THE BALLS OFF A BRASS MONKEY
The phrase "cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey," often abbreviated to "Brass Monkey," is a colourful expression used to describe extremely cold weather. It is said to have referred to iron cannonballs contracting in very low temperatures and then falling through their brass storage tracks (monkeys) alongside the guns. While it sounds plausible, and one would love it to be the case, the story behind it is actually a myth.

The idea that the brass tray would contract significantly enough in extreme cold to dislodge the iron cannonballs does not hold up to scientific scrutiny. The difference in thermal contraction between brass and iron is relatively small. No historical or naval documentation supports the existence of brass trays used to store cannonballs in the manner described.

The more accepted explanation is that "brass monkey" originated from brass figurine souvenirs that were common in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly from China and Japan. These often came in sets of three representing the Three Wise Monkeys. The first recorded use of the phrase appears to be in 1857, in C.A. Abbey's book 'Before the Mast in the Clippers,' which mentioned "It would freeze the tail off a brass monkey." The phrase was most likely spiced up over time with "balls" referring to the monkey's testicles.

CAN’T MAKE HEAD NOR TAIL OF IT!
The expression "can't make head nor tail of it" is commonly used to convey confusion or an inability to understand something. It is said to have come from the Yeoman of the Signals, who could not make any sense of a distant hoist of flag signals.

However, this expression's origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where Cicero used a similar phrase, "ne caput nec pedes," meaning "neither head nor feet," to express a state of confusion. This concept of not being able to discern meaning has persisted through the centuries, with the phrase becoming popular in English around the 1600s. The specific phrase "can't make head nor tail of it" likely evolved independently in English, although it shares thematic similarities with the coin-related expressions "heads or tails," which refer to the two sides of a coin. Moreover, variations like "can't make heads or tails" are often used interchangeably, although "head nor tail" is considered more traditional in British English. The widespread phrase may have been used by signalmen at sea, particularly in contexts where flag signalling was involved, as it was well established by this time, but they are not the term's origin.

With thanks to:

Michael Harpur with thanks to some great organised lounging with Stephen Skelly

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