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noun

helmsman

Helmsman (noun) means the person who steers a ship. Example: “The helmsman kept the boat steady through the rough waves.”

noun
1
The person who steers a ship.
"The helmsman kept the boat steady through the rough waves."
2
Figuratively, someone who leads or guides an organization or effort.
"As helmsman of the party, he set its direction for a decade."

How to use helmsman

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe crew member who steers the ship — or, figuratively, whoever is "steering" a group or effort.

Common pairings
the ship's helmsman

Word forms

helmsmen plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ kept the boat steady through the rough waves.

Etymology

From "helm" (a ship's steering wheel) plus "man."

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “helmsman” mean?

The word “helmsman” means the person who steers a ship. In plain terms, the crew member who steers the ship — or, figuratively, whoever is "steering" a group or effort.

How do you use “helmsman” in a sentence?

Here is “helmsman” used in a sentence: “The helmsman kept the boat steady through the rough waves.”

What part of speech is “helmsman”?

“Helmsman” is a noun.

How many meanings does “helmsman” have?

“Helmsman” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the person who steers a ship.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial