Naval slang surnames. MAKE-AND-MEND The official naval name for a half-holiday.

Naval slang surnames. Learn the fascinating origin of the Naval surname; its meaning & distribution. But have you ever wondered what kind of slang they use? Well, we’ve got you covered! In this listicle, we’ve gathered some of the most popular and unique slang terms used by navy sailors. The following are just some of Whether you're a closet philosopher or diving headfirst into history, our articles written by fellow buffs and brainiacs can get you started. Apr 19, 2019 · In Britain, it’s said you’re never more than 70 miles from the sea. Referring to some point really early in the morning, like 0200 (which would be pronounced oh-two-hundred) 0'dark thirty: one half hour after 0'dark hundred. CRUSHER Sailors' slang for a Regulating Petty Officer - a ship's policeman. 'Darbies' is also the slang for handcuffs – but MADAM The most usual way in which the average naval officer refers to his own or another officer's wife - e. Discover the rich history and understand the naval culture through this comprehensive guide. Murphy Jackspeak, a guide to Naval language which has become mainstream…. If anyone knows a good website or my nickname let me know, just curious :lol: Oct 3, 2023 · Sailors, with their adventurous spirit and nautical expertise, have a language all their own. BURGOO Naval slang or "jackspeak" compendium (1955) Covey-Crump, a compendium of Naval slang published within the Royal Navy in 1955. So, whether you’re a sailor yourself or just curious about their lingo, join us as we dive into the Jan 27, 2025 · Navy jargon isn’t just a collection of quirky phrases—it’s a lifestyle, a bond, and a language steeped in tradition. JIMMY BUNGS The old Naval nickname for the Cooper rating. Military slang is also used to reinforce the (usually friendly) interservice rivalries. Much of the language used is still derived from the Royal Navy, although as Canadians many local customs and slang have come about. SPITHEAD SPITHEAD PHEASANT Old-time naval slang name for a Kipper; sometimes also called a "One-eyed steak". Aug 10, 2018 · Plank owner - Sailor who stays on one ship. Below, you’ll find a collection of phrases that I have amassed from personal experience as well as interviews from all rates, ranks and even different services. Check out our list of 204 commonly used military terms in use today. (used in the same context as 0'dark hundred. It has now come to mean taken by surprise or given a shock. Learn naval terms & the meaning behind them with our definitions & explanations. Aug 1, 2023 · As the world's oldest and most distinguished naval force, the Royal Navy has had numerous nicknames throughout its history. Over the years, hundreds of naval words, terms and expressions have found their way into everyday Oct 3, 2017 · After Sir Henry Morgan (circa 1635-88) buccaneer and Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. It reflects the traditions, camaraderie, and unique experiences that sailors share. The Royal Navy is the oldest organised fighting service in the world and those of us with British ancestors would more than … Mar 1, 2025 · A practice, probably unique in naval and military circles is that of associating certain nicknames with particular surnames. Naval Terminology Every service, or profession, develops their own slang terms for things within the work place. According to the Navy history museum, the word chit was carried over from the days of Hindu traders when they used slips of paper called “citthi Jan 25, 2018 · Jackspeak is a comprehensive reference guide to the humorous and colourful slang of the Senior Service, explaining in layman's termsthe otherwise cryptic everyday language of the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Fleet Air Arm. With useful cross-references SailorSpeak is a glossary of Military Terminology, Jargon, and Slang that has been compiled and edited by Jeff Crowell Oct 24, 2022 · Usually, women were allowed to serve the navy as full-time crew members. TALLY Slang word meaning Name; hence, Death-tally (identity). Some are common and in use outside of the Navy but some are particular to the service. It is used by both the Navy and the Marine Corps. Established in the 16th Century, from the days of wooden warships to today's aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines, the Royal Navy has had ample time to gather a collection of monikers. BUNT Naval name for the belly of a sail and the middle of a yard. With useful cross-references Aug 27, 2021 · Deck Cargo Naval slang for a woman’s breasts. A single misunderstood command can mean the difference between success and disa 4 days ago · The Royal Australian Navy has some common nicknames for sailors with specific surnames. . ContentsThe Essentials: 15 Acronyms Every Civilian Should KnowThe Big Picture: Understanding DoD and Joint OperationsKnow Your Branch: Service-Specific LanguagesA Day in Military Life: Thematic TerminologyMilitary Slang: The Language of ExperienceMaster Sep 26, 2024 · Dive into the world of Navy Jargon and unlock the secrets of their unique language. Sep 7, 2023 · What does Navy Mean? “Navy” refers to a nation’s military maritime force, comprising ships, submarines, and personnel, responsible for safeguarding coastal and maritime interests, conducting naval operations, and maintaining security at sea. Jun 18, 2024 · Military terms, slang, jargon, and lingo change throughout time. Flake out - To lie down. MAJOR (THE) MAJOR. Featuring more than 4,000 alphabetical entries, it was compiled by an ex-RM surgeon who spent 24 years in theservice. Navy slang/Unit nicknames. This may have originated from the fact that tailoring is a popular profession among Jews, or "J" was substituted for "S". BLOOD MONEY An old Naval slang name for prize money. For sailors, these terms are more than words; they’re a shorthand for survival, camaraderie, and shared experiences at sea. Thanks! http:… I have spent the past few years of my time in the Navy fascinated with our “jargon”, otherwise known as Navy slang. Usually applied to sailors. Prior to An old Naval officers' slang name for a tea-party, with ladies, ashore. Jackspeak of the Royal Canadian Navy Jackspeak: Certain words or terminology that are commonly used in the Canadian Navy. Learn essential USMC terminology, boot camp slang, and naval commands with our free downloadable PDF. (meaning "Not Entitled") which are written in the pay ledger and read out at payment in respect of any man who has no pay to come this payday. Paid off - Discharged. JEW JEWING Naval nickname for tailoring. 5 days ago · The following are some examples of the slang of the United States Navy, you will also see references to the United States Marine Corps as well because of their use of naval terminology sometimes also referred to as NAVSpeak. Navy Slang HERE. Bridge Card - A folding card, published monthly, listing all Royal Navy warships, submarines, and Naval Air Command squadrons, showing the name and seniority of all their Commanding Officers. The air wing is under the command of " CAG " (once "Commander, Air Group" – but now "Commander, Air Wing" but still "CAG") – a senior Commander, and joins the carrier for the duration of a cruise. Jan 16, 2012 · Jackspeak is a comprehensive reference guide to the humorous and colourful slang of the Senior Service, explaining in layman's termsthe otherwise cryptic everyday language of the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Fleet Air Arm. Oct 3, 2023 · Navy sailors, with their bravery and dedication, form an integral part of our armed forces. A Dictionary of Naval Slang, his last book, was published at the height of the Second World War. 1. Murphy Jul 16, 2022 · Many phrases and sayings that we use every day in the 21st Century have a nautical origin from the seafaring days of old. List of traditional nicknames based on your last name. SPITCHER Naval slang work meaning "Finish" - used as either a verb or a noun. 3. This list was compiled over the years and was finally The aviation squadron s and aircraft aboard a carrier (except for the rescue helos). " There are some "myths and legends" attached to this signal. Discover the humorous and colourful and cryptic slang of the Senior Service, explained in layman's terms. So, the above navy-code sentence Jun 27, 2025 · Explore unique military slang and phrases understood only by veterans. Here are a few terms that only make sense when said Jul 5, 2021 · Does The Royal Navy Have Its Own Language? In a word … yes. Aftershave. With that comes a lot of different slang terms for sailors, both old and new—so let’s look at a few today. BUNTS Naval slang name for a Signalman - abbreviation for bunting-tosser. Here are a few of my favorite (clean) Navy terms. SPUNYARN MAJOR MAKE MAKE A SIGNAL Naval signals are made not sent. And yes, this online list does contain the more “colorful” jargon. This is compilation of some Naval terminology. Aug 24, 2018 · Thankfully, the Royal Navy has researched the origins of many of the most common surnames. And, just like the Jan 29, 2024 · This is particularly true in Britain, a nation which has taken great pride in its naval history for centuries. Deep Six Waters greater than six fathoms in depth (36 ft / 11 m). Various Sources NAVSPEAK aka US NAVY SLANG 0-9 O'dark hundred: Pronounced "oh dark". it is very informative and helpful for us to interpret the acronyms. "My Madam", "Your Madam". Royal Naval Slang & Terminology The Royal Navy has a language all of its own and the average matelot uses a lot of terminology unheard in other walks of life. With a maritime history as rich as the United Kingdom's, it is hardly surprising that naval slang should have become such an integral part of our everyday vocabulary. May 7, 2010 · Is there a list on the internet for nicknames with certain surnames? I've found some but couldn't find mine for Malone. Which do you know? Sep 13, 2017 · After Sir Henry Morgan (circa 1635-88) buccaneer and Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. Feb 23, 2012 · Hi All, Good Morning! I found this list of Navy Slang on Navy for Dads. I came to a page that purported to be Navy slang. Sep 19, 2019 · The Royal Navy has a language all of its own. Come along as we explore some of the most interesting Navy slang terms. SPITKID A large saucer-shaped receptacle about one foot in diameter used as a cigarette ash-tray. Shitty Kitty: A slang term for the USS Kitty Hawk which was the worst ship in the United States Navy, and also the oldest. And you can look up yours below. The Navy another language all together. For example, ‘Taken Aback’ – A ship is said to be taken aback when through a sudden wind shift or careless steering the sails billow in reverse. Some of the words and sayings I haven't used in yonks. A Dictionary of Naval Slang, his last book, […]. NORTHERN NORTHERN LIGHTS The Aurora Borealis. Doubloon May 16, 2025 · The Fascinating World of Navy Slang Navy slang is a vibrant and essential part of the culture within the United States Navy. Aspects of the Royal Navy have found their way into everyday life, including the slang used by sailors. Rattle is the naval slang for prison and Morgan is reputed to have always carried a large bunch of keys. Some of these terms have been considered Jackspeak of the Royal Canadian Navy Jackspeak: Certain words or terminology that are commonly used in the Canadian Navy. Others have quite literally stuck in the mind and my vocabulary since 1977! Jackspeak: A Guide to British Naval Slang & Usage Writer Welcome back. This guide will take you on an in-depth exploration of some of the most common slang terms used by Navy sailors, their meanings, and their applications in everyday naval life. Oct 10, 2025 · Walk into any military installation and you’ll hear a language that sounds like English but isn’t quite comprehensible to civilian ears. T. Here is a guide of the more common naval terms for those that have never served and as a gentle reminder for those that left the Navy many years ago. The name 'Black Cats' is derived from the fierce cat depicted on the now disbanded 702 Naval Air Squadron emblem and the term 'blackcatting' which is naval slang for one-upmanship – doing or owning something better than someone else. Jun 17, 2022 · Speak like a sailor with this naval slang. These are 19 terms only sailors will understand 1. Includes terms from the age of sail, Nelson's Navy, the Napoleonic wars. Oct 22, 2020 · Every warfare specialty has its own language, but Naval Aviators have elevated slang to an art form. Commonly known as "Jackspeak", some of this naval slang has been in use for centuries! Here are 5 examples of old naval slang still in common usage. CHEF Sailors' nickname for the senior Cook rating on board. Aug 23, 2017 · This is a naval signal, conveyed by flaghoist or voice radio, meaning "well done"; it has also passed into the spoken and written vocabulary. Light the smoking lamp - In old Navy a lamp was lit when smoking was allowed; now they pass the word over an announcing system. JAWBATION An old naval slang word for a reprimand, a telling off. Shows his true colors Read a list of naval slang with the relevant definition. In naval slang, women sailors are still informally known by the nicknames Jennies or wren. This article will explore the noble nicknames that have become part of the Jan 4, 2007 · Some of these are RN but some are from the OZ Navy, hope they help though Allen Darby Allen – there seems to have been a tradition of naming anyone with the surname Allen as “Darby Allen†both within the RN and the RAN for many years. Oct 17, 2024 · Hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the language of life at sea in the U. JEWING BAG or BUNDLE The Navy’s (and Marine Corps’) initial training period of three months, which some condemn as being too rigorous, but which traditionalists insist is the only way to preserve the OLD Navy’s custom of “wooden ships and Iron men”. Then I got an idea, and did a search on Foo Foo naval slang. Original brochure developed in commemoration of the US Navy's 200th Birthday by the Navy Internal Relations Activity, Office of the Chief of Information From 'A1' to 'Zulu', the fully revised and updated third edition of Jackspeak is a comprehensive guide to the slang of the Royal Navy. Chit A chit in the Navy refers to any piece of paper from a form to a pass and even currency. Navy. The Canadian Navy has it's own terminology and slang that is still evolving to this day. Its origin is uncertain but perhaps it is a distortion of the old song 'Barbra Allen'. Attention Navy Vets Ahoy my fellow Navy Veterans! Jun 17, 2024 · Wondering what the difference between Hoorah, Oorah, Hooah, and Hooyah are? We break them all down here, including the history and examples. It comes from the old pipe Many organizations and subcultures have their own terminology, and the US Navy is no exception. Navy slang. The Navy is notorious (in a good way) for its colorful language. Many women have been in the United States Navy for over a century. "scandalised". If you’d like to check out more Navy phrases (there are 100’s of them), visit the Glossary of U. It is mentioned in A. With useful cross-references and examples of Sep 17, 2017 · Discover the meaning and origins of Royal Navy nicknames, exploring their historical significance and cultural associations. By examining the meaning, origin, usage, and etymology of foxhole in Navy slang we gain insight into how language shapes identity, fosters camaraderie, and honors the sacrifices of those who served at sea. 4. A veteran of the Royal Navy, he wrote several best-selling books memorialising the sailor’s world, including The Musings of a Merry Matloe (1927) and Awful Disclosures of a Bluejacket (1929). Boater: One who works on a boat, especially as a captain. " 'Babies heads' is navy slang for Steak and Kidney puddings. From salty sayings to seafaring slang, we've compiled a list of the top slang terms for sailors that will have you Jun 1, 2021 · A number of words and phrases originated as Navy slang that was used by sailors traveling the world's oceans on military vessels. Nov 19, 2016 · Wouldn't it be cool to know some military slang to impress your friends? Sep 28, 2021 · Cologne. Mar 24, 2023 · You’ll hear a lot of specific terminology aboard a ship, these are some of the main navy terms you’ll want to know right away. Able Seaman – the term originally was Able Rate meaning someone who was able to “hand, reef, and steer” therefore ‘able Jan 20, 2023 · Have you ever wondered what a “field day” is? What is a “Ropeyarn Sunday?” How did the term “scuttlebutt” become synonymous with gossip? The language of the Navy can be just as interesting as its origins. Nautical terms and slang Nautical terms and naval slang Aboard – On or in a vessel Action Stations – A signal to prepare for battle and assigned positions Admiralty – The authority in charge of the Royal Navy Aft – Part of a vessel towards the stern (rear) Afternoon Watch – Period of duty between 12:00 to 16:00 hours Anker Dutch, Danish, Norwegian Metonymic surname for a sailor, meaning "anchor" in Dutch, Danish and Norwegian. 2. This article explores the roots of naval slang, its significance, and some of the most commonly used terms, alongside case studies and Jun 12, 2025 · Everyday Slang We Didn’t Know Originated In the Navy By Media Feed | Published 4 months ago Over the centuries, sailors have created a language all their own to describe objects, people, actions and places. NUMBER TO MAKE BUNTS Naval slang name for a Signalman - abbreviation for bunting-tosser. Note that in the Navy, many ships and units have nicknames; these are listed separately, in Appendix:Glossary of U. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The Royal Navy assigns badges to every ship, submarine, squadron and shore BLOOD CHIT Naval slang name for the Indemnity Certificate required to be signed by a civilian before embarkation in a Service ship or aircraft. Well - that does smell good, but I wonder. Apr 17, 2020 · The Naval slang that developed over the centuries is known as Jack Speak. Jun 16, 2024 · I've always wonderedwhy are Navy sailors called squids? Find out why here, as well as 10 other slang nicknames for Navy sailors. MAKE-AND-MEND The official naval name for a half-holiday. Featuring more than 4,000 alphabetical entries, Jackspeak was compiled by an ex-RM surgeon who spent 24 years in the service. It can be combined with the "negative" signal, spoken or written NEGAT, to say "NEGAT Bravo Zulu," or "not well done. BUNG UP AND BILGE FREE Naval expression meaning "Everything correct". Much of the language used is still derived from the Royal Navy, although as Canadians many local customs and slang have come about Jan 14, 2025 · The military has a language of its own. Hearty: This is the perfect name for a good comrade. ) Naval slang Naval slang has been used since the formation of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), much of it taken from the Royal Navy. CHIPS CHIPS, CHIPPY, CHIPPY-CHAP The inevitable traditional Naval nickname for a Shipwright, both officer and rating. NORWESTER Old naval slang name for rum and water in equal parts. TAKE TO TAKE CHARGE Said of ships' fittings or furniture which break away from their fastenings in bad weather and are thrown about by the motion of the ship. Tins of mutton introduced as rations were not liked by the sailors and were taken by them to contain the butchered remains of Fanny Adams who had been brutally murdered and dismembered. Sound off - Give your name, rate and horsepower. From the Maltese word of that meaning. Gerald O’Driscoll (1886–1947) was an Irish sailor, journalist and humourist who also wrote under the pen-name ‘Geraldus’. Sep 28, 2011 · If so, you have been using just a few of the thousands of slang words and phrases coined or adopted by the Royal Navy - the world's oldest organised fighting service - over the course of more than 400 years. The following is a brief collection of terms and sayings that may be heard in most RAN ships or establishments. Fascinated by the idea of Jack Speak, I did some digging and discovered that many colourful phrases used in everyday life on land had naval origins. 301 Moved Permanently301 Moved Permanently nginx Jun 2, 2025 · Master marine corps terminology before Day One. Jack Speak - Canadian Naval Terminology and Slang. Many terms were born from necessity, developed as quick, efficient ways to communicate complex commands and ideas in the midst of chaos. Given this, the country’s most important means of defense has, historically, been its navy. 0 mark - A perfect mark, as in examinations. White rat - A man who "rats" on his shipmates to officers. Navy slang for gossip or rumors. We are relatively certain that there are more just not that we remember. Jun 30, 2025 · Dive into the fascinating world of nautical terms and sailing phrases that have found their way into everyday language. Jan 16, 2025 · Many ships and units of the United States Navy have nicknames; these nicknames are listed here. In some instances, such as calling your morning coffee a “cuppa Joe,” Navy terminology has become part of common slang ─ but in other cases speaking like a Sailor can sound From 'A1' to 'Zulu', the fully revised and updated third edition of Jackspeak is a comprehensive guide to the slang of the Royal Navy. A butt was a wooden cask which held water or other liquids; to scuttle is to drill a hole, as for tapping a cask. S. Slang Words for Navy Here is the list of slang words for Navy Aug 11, 2024 · Introduction Naval slang is a unique and colorful dialect that has evolved over centuries within the naval community. Nowadays, it has come to mean "dispose of" in general. NELSON’S BLOOD One of the slang names for rum. g. Naval talk is replete with jargon, much of it having JACK'S SPEAK Jack's Speak I thought I'd a add a small glossary of Naval language (Jack's Speak) to this site. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like chit, scuttlebutt, crank and more. Aug 10, 2019 · Did you know there are hundreds of everyday phrases that originated from Navy slang, or Jack speak as it's also known? Ever been asked to show a leg? Have you let the cat out of the bag? Or TAILORMADES Naval slang for professionally manufactured (as opposed to homerolled) cigarettes. This article explores the fascinating vocabulary used by sailors, from common terms to more obscure phrases. Jan 4, 2023 · All sailors, from the “old salts” to the newly initiated are familiar with the following terms. Sep 9, 2024 · Origins and Evolution of Sailor Jargon Early Roots: From Pirates to Naval Crews The language of sailors has its roots in maritime history, with influences from pirates, naval crews, and global sea traders. It may refer to throwing things overboard and was the minimum depth for burials at sea, hence it became a euphemism for committing a corpse to the sea. With useful cross-references and examples of Jan 25, 2018 · From 'A1' to 'Zulu', the fully revised and updated third edition of Jackspeak is a comprehensive guide to the slang of the Royal Navy. As a result the origin of the Royal Navy's nickname remains obscure. Learn their meanings and origins from A to Z. Learn about naval terms and meanings—some familiar and some foreign—in this fun post. COLOURS HOISTING AND LOWERING COLOURS The present ceremony of hoisting colours (Union Jack at the jackstaff, and We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Much of this slang has found itself being integrated into the English language, without the majority of the population aware it originated in the Navy. JEWING FIRM A sailor on board whom in his spare time does tailoring for others. Out of bounds However, the most reliable list of Royal Navy officers does not mention an Andrew Miller or an Andrew Walker. All Navy slang has a backstory. The Navy is rich with its own important language. Take a look at this – can you guess what it means? "I prefer babies heads over bag meals, although really, I'm a bit of a nutty fiend. NOREASTER Naval slang name for an empty pay packet - from the letters N. It plays a vital role in national defense and protection of maritime trade routes. At the end of the cruise the carrier goes to the yard to be glued back together, while the air wing squadrons Nov 1, 2018 · Text on inside cover of brochure: "Origin of Navy Terminology" reprinted by Naval Education and Training Program Development Center (Code ETM2) for use in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps "Introduction to Naval Science" curriculum. It said foo foo was talcum powder. Fanny Adams was a young The cask of drinking water on ships was called a scuttlebutt and since Sailors exchanged gossip when they gathered at the scuttlebutt for a drink of water, scuttlebutt became U. Covey-Crump, Royal Navy#"Jackspeak" and Customs and traditions of the Royal Navy. May 21, 2025 · The British naval slang sense derives from Fanny Adams. It has been designated this name due to the fact it that it looks like shit, smells like shit, and the chain of command will work you round the clock and not give a shit. All other Navy slang is listed in Appendix:Glossary of U. A 'bag meal' means packed lunch and 'nutty fiend' translates as somebody who likes to eat many sweets. Dec 19, 2001 · Heres a few old-time navy ones Andrew Miller - the navy (specially of recruitment) Jack Dusty - junior steward (or bar-steward) Covey Crump - slang Fanny Adams - mess kettle Jack Shalloo - a boaster Jimmy Green - a rookie Skypilot, Bish - chaplain Crusher - petty officer (responsible for discipline) Gobby - coastguard There are various legends behind some of these. Using our collections for research The collections at Royal Museums Greenwich offer a world class resource for researching maritime history, astronomy and time. L. Like every specialized profession, the navy has its own language filled with jargon, phrases, and terms that can be obscure to outsiders. I had occasion to look up foo foo just now, and found many definitions - none of which were like that. COCKTAIL SICK BAY COCKTAIL Naval slang name for a draught of sal volatile given to a person who faints which receiving treatment in the sick bay; or, more often, for any form of medicine issued in the sick bay. Unlock your family history in the largest database of last names. The one most frequently heard has Admiral Halsey sending it to ships of 5 days ago · Military slang is a set of colloquial terms which are unique to or which originated with military personnel. They are often abbreviations or derivatives of the NATO Phonetic Alphabet, or otherwise incorporating aspects of formal military concepts and terms. We explore 116 Naval Sayings here. SEARCH THE NAVY LOG: FIND A SERVICE MEMBER Search by Name Search by Station or Ship First Name Last Name Refine Search Glossary of Naval and nautical terminology used in Historic Naval Fiction, shipping and sailing. But to a Marine 'other rank', the title MAJOR primarily refers to the Sergeant-Major. Discover the language that bonds those who served. Start sounding like a Marine — today. E. 8bna2k s57zsid msrl ln7h n6gn tnw 5czbqvdr wj0n c58 jwjt8s