Gangway!: Sea Language Comes Ashore (Dover Books on Language)

"A delight to all who enjoy the American language." — The Christian Science MonitorLandlubbers use a remarkable number of terms and expressions that originated at sea, from "casting about" and "learning the ropes" to "parting company," "spinning a yarn," and "going by the board." This readable dictionary of maritime vernacular offers concise explanations for the seagoing meanings behind "catspaw," "kick the bucket," "kittle o' fish," "palaver," "three sheets in the wind," and other curious lingo. Hailed by The Washington Post as "entertaining and informative," this illustrated reference is a great gift for any sailor or lover of language. It's also a unique contribution to the study of American English and slang.