nautical mile: A unit of length corresponding to one minute of latitude (approximately 6,076 feet) about 1/8 longer than the statute mile (1.151 statute miles)
Obeahman: A witch doctor who practices, Obeah, Jamaican dark magic
old salt: Slang for an experienced mariner
Pearl of San Luis: A legendary black pearl discovered off the NE coast of Brazil.
pencil: Pencils, as we know them, were first used in the 17th century
periwig: a highly styled wig worn by both women and men
pieces of eight: #
pirate: One who engages in an act of plundering other ships and shore installations
Plymouth shift: a simple white cotton garment worn next to the skin to protect the outer clothing from sweat
poop: A superstructure installed on the afterdeck. (see ship parts)
poop deck: A raised deck installed at the stern (rear of the vessel)
port: The left side of a vessel when looking forward
powder keg / powder flask: A small metal cask for holding gunpowder
privateer: A person (or ship) authorized under letters of marque to plunder foreign ships and ports
Puritan: A member of a group of English Protestants of the late 16th and 17th centuries who regarded the Reformation of the Church of England under Elizabeth I as incomplete and sought to simplify and regulate forms of worship
quarters: The various duty locations for the crew
glossary N-Q
A - B
C - D
E - G
H - K
L - M
N - Q
R - S
T - Z
return to
word-book