noun
sailor
SAY-luh
noun
1
A person who works on or navigates a ship, especially a member of its crew.
"The old sailor had spent forty years at sea."
2
Someone who sails recreationally, especially in small boats.
"She became a keen sailor after joining the university sailing club."
How to Use Sailor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who works on ships or sails boats, whether professionally or for sport.
Common pairings
a merchant sailor
an experienced sailor
Word Forms
sailors plural, Sailors plural
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The old _____ had spent forty years at sea.
Etymology
From Middle English sailer, built from sail + -or, eventually eclipsing the older word "mariner."