A Boating Blog for Cottagers
Slang and Cottage Terms
As a cottager, you've likely heard (and used) many of these nautical terms in your day-to-day life. From describing the perfect weather as "hunky-dory" to telling your kids to "pipe down" when they're getting a little too rowdy, these phrases have become ingrained in our cottage culture.
But have you ever wondered where they came from? Many of these sayings have their roots in the rich history of seafaring and sailing. By understanding the origins of these nautical expressions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the language we use and the stories they tell.
Take "bamboozle," for example. This term was once used to describe the cunning tactics of pirates, who would fly the flags of friendly nations to lure unsuspecting ships into their traps. Today, it's a common way to describe when someone has been fooled or deceived. The meaning may have evolved, but the underlying idea of trickery and deception remains.
Or consider "feeling blue." This phrase harkens back to the days when a ship's crew would paint a blue stripe or fly blue flags to signify the death of a captain or officer. While the specific nautical context may be less familiar to modern cottagers, the idea of feeling somber or melancholic still resonates.
And then there's "under the weather." This expression refers to the practice of sailors taking shelter in the ship's base during a storm, shielding themselves from the elements. Today, it's a figurative way of saying someone is feeling ill or unwell, but the original connection to seeking refuge from the harsh realities of life at sea is still evident.
As you sip your Caesar and gaze out at the calm waters of the lake, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of nautical language that has become woven into our cottage culture. These words and phrases not only add a touch of seafaring flair to our everyday conversations but also serve as a reminder of the enduring connections between our land-locked lives and the vast, unpredictable oceans that have shaped so much of human history.
So, the next time you find yourself "running a tight ship" at the cottage or "learning the ropes" of a new outdoor activity, remember the proud nautical roots that underpin these familiar expressions. And who knows, maybe you'll even be inspired to try your hand at "tying a knot" or two - just don't forget to "batten down the hatches" first!
Bamboozle
Describing pirates who would deceive other ships by flying friendly nation flags, the meaning of "bamboozle" hasn't changed - it is still used when someone is fooled or cheated.
Feeling Blue
Used when a captain or officer died on the ship, the crew pained a blue stripe or flew blue flags to signal respect. Today, its meaning is similar but not exactly the same.
Under the Weather
When a storm would hit, the crew would hide out in the ship's base until the storm passed, meaning they were "under the weather." Today, it is a figurative way of saying someone is sick.
All Hands on Deck
This was a command for the crew to gather and help navigate the boat in a storm.
That Ship Has Sailed
You've missed the ship's departure and will not be able to catch another until next week - too bad for you. Today, it means you've lost your opportunity.
Batten Down the Hatches
Prepare for bad weather - get the "battens," planks of wood, to prevent water from entering the boat.
Sink or Swim
A morbid term used when suspected witches were captured to determine whether they were guilty or innocent of witchcraft. Either way, witch or not, the suspect would die due to drowning or be executed by officials. Today, it much less means face your fears to either succeed or fail.
Runs a Tight Ship
When the ropes were tight, this signaled that the captain was in control of the boat and crew. Today, it's a term to describe being organized.
Pipe Down
A signal to the crew to pipe down the hammocks and go to sleep. Today, it's a saying to tell your kids when they are being a little too rowdy.
Hunky-dory
Some sayings like 'hunky-dory' never die. One theory links this funky phrase to Honcho dori, a road in 1876 Japan, where sailors would go for some fun. Fast-forward to present times, we guarantee that your cottage dad also uses hunky-dory to describe the perfect day he just had.
Taking a Different Tack
Today, we use this phrase to describe finding another way to tackle a given situation. This comes from a nautical term that refers to finding another way to navigate the boat through wind in order to travel in a certain direction.
Learn the Ropes
A sailor would need to literally learn the location and use of the ship's ropes in order to be a successful member of the crew. Nowadays, it is more broadly used to mean getting acquainted with the skills and basics for a new setting, usually as a first step to being a helpful part of the team (which at a cottage could include using rope to tie a knot—but only if you really want to).
Bottom's Up
Did you know that men used to be tricked into joining the navy? Recruiters would put coins at the bottom of beer glasses, and when the unsuspecting sailor got to the coin, it was deemed that they'd taken payment for joining the Royal Navy. A drinking mate would say "bottom's up" to hint that a friend should check the bottom of their glass to avoid the coin. Presently, there's no tricks at play—just a clink! And a lighthearted "bottom's up," as we cheers our homemade Caesars to a great weekend at the cottage.
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