Why Do Sailors Swear So Much?

Sailors have long been known for their colorful language, with a wide array of colorful curses, insults, and expletives that could make even a seasoned sailor blush.

But why do these salty mariners swear so much? In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the history behind sailor’s love affair with profanity, the different types of sailor swearing, and the role that it plays in sailing culture today.

History Of Sailors Swearing

In the 19th century, sailors began to take pride in their salty reputation, and while insults like “son of a bitch” became widespread among Americans of all professions, sailors “embraced cursing with a distinct gusto” (Gilje).

They treated it as an art form and viewed it as a way to bond with each other during their long voyages at sea. As historian Michael J. Crawford explains: “Swearing among seamen was more than just the use of four-letter words—it was a means to bond among peers and establish trust.”

This idea still holds true today, as sailors around the world continue to use language in ways that connect them to one another and create strong camaraderie within their ranks.

Different Types of Sailor Swearing

From playful jabs to serious curses, there are many different types of sailor swearing used on the open seas today.

Some examples include terms like “dogger,” which is used to describe someone who isn’t paying attention, “barnacle,” which is used to refer to someone who is lazy, and “scurvy dog,” which is used to insult someone who’s not doing their fair share on board.

Sailors also swear about weather conditions such as “blow me down!” when referring to strong winds or “doubledecker!” when referring to heavy rain or snowfall.

Why Sailors Swear More Than Other Professions

While many professions use profanity from time-to-time, sailors swear more than most due to their prolonged periods spent away from civilization and society’s norms and restraints placed on conventional behavior on land-based life.

Because they’re often hundreds or thousands miles away from home for weeks or months at a time, there are no rules or regulations telling them how they should speak or act so they can express themselves freely without fear of judgement or punishment from society at large.

This sense of freedom allows them to let loose with some colorful language when appropriate without any worry about repercussions – something that other professions don’t always enjoy!

How Sailors Have Turned Swearing Into An Art Form

Sailors have managed to turn what some might consider vulgarity into an art form by using creative combinations of words that express emotion in ways that you can’t always capture with conventional English phrases alone – something that’s truly unique about sailing culture!

For example, terms like “thundering scuttlebutt” (something confusing) or “gullywhumper” (a stormy situation) help give voice to feelings that may be hard for others outside the circle understand without context clues from experienced seafarers—a key part of making sure everyone on board feels connected despite being far away from home for extended periods!

The Importance Of Profanity In Sailing Culture

Profanity is important in sailing culture because it helps create bonds between crew members by allowing them to speak freely without fear or judgement from society at large—plus it makes them feel like they’re part of something special!

It also gives them an outlet for expressing emotions that may be difficult for them otherwise—especially while they’re out at sea for long periods without much contact with the outside world!

Finally, swearing helps keep things lighthearted and fun by allowing sailors to joke around with each other and make light of tough situations—which can be incredibly important during challenging times onboard ship!

How Language Has Changed Over Time

Sailor slang has evolved over time along with changes in nautical technology—from steam ships in the 19th century up through modern vessels powered by diesel engines today!

As technology has advanced so too has the language used by mariners as new terms are invented and old ones become obsolete due to changes in maritime practice & equipment available onboard ships (i.e., “scuttlebutt” becoming “water cooler talk”).

Additionally, modern media and pop culture have had an influence on how people communicate out at sea as references from TV shows & movies become common within sailing circles!

The Rise In Popularity Of Sailor Jargon

In recent years there has been an increase in people using sailor slang outside its traditional setting – particularly amongst millennials who want an edgy way to express themselves without resorting too heavily into profanity itself!

Some popular terms include “Ahoy Matey!,” “Avast Ye!,” & “Yo Ho Ho!” which have been adopted by landlubbers everywhere thanks largely in part due its association with pirate culture & swashbuckling adventure tales like those found popular movies & television shows such as Pirates Of The Caribbean & Black Sails respectively!

The Influence Of Modern Media And Pop Culture

Modern media & pop culture have had a significant influence on how people communicate out at sea as references from TV shows & movies become common within sailing circles!

For example, phrases such as “shiver me timbers” & “walk the plank” were popularized through pirate-themed entertainment & have become common parlance amongst seafarers all across the globe – even if they don’t necessarily understand its origin anymore!

Finally, pop culture plays an important role in helping spread awareness about maritime issues & topics related specifically towards those involved directly within this field – making sure they remain relevant even long after they’ve left portside life behind!

Conclusion

At its core, sailor swearing is about connecting people together despite being miles apart – both physically and figuratively speaking – while also allowing them express themselves freely without fear or judgement from society at large!

With its unique mix of profanity and creative phraseology there’s no denying its importance within sailing culture today – whether it’s used for good natured ribbing between friends onboard ship or simply venting frustrations after a hard day’s work out at sea!