A boatswain’s pipe is a musical instrument used by sailors to issue commands or signals. It is a small whistle-like device that produces a high-pitched sound, and it has been used for centuries on ships of all kinds. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of a boatswain’s pipe, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
A boatswain’s pipe is a wind instrument that is used to give orders on a ship. It is made of metal or brass and has a hollow tube with a mouthpiece and a tapered end. The sound is produced by blowing air into the mouthpiece and vibrating the air column inside the tube. The boatswain’s pipe is also known as a bosun’s whistle or a bosun’s call.
Origin
The boatswain’s pipe has a long history, dating back to ancient times. It was used by the Greeks and Romans to signal orders on their ships. The instrument was later adopted by the British Navy in the 16th century and became an essential tool for sailors. The boatswain’s pipe was used to signal various commands, such as calling the crew to attention, sounding the alarm, or announcing meal times.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The boatswain’s pipe is defined in various dictionaries as a whistle-like instrument used by sailors to issue commands. It is also described as a tool used to maintain order on a ship and to ensure that the crew follows the captain’s orders. The boatswain’s pipe is often associated with the Navy and is considered a symbol of authority and discipline.
Associations
The boatswain’s pipe is associated with the Navy, maritime traditions, and seafaring culture. It is also linked to the idea of discipline, order, and hierarchy on a ship. The boatswain’s pipe is often depicted in movies and books as a symbol of authority, and it is used to convey the seriousness of the situation.
Synonyms
The boatswain’s pipe is also known as a bosun’s whistle or a bosun’s call. These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the same instrument. Other synonyms for the boatswain’s pipe include pipe, whistle, and signal horn.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for the boatswain’s pipe as it is a tool used to issue commands and maintain order on a ship.
The same root words
The boatswain’s pipe is also known as a bosun’s whistle or a bosun’s call. The term “bosun” is derived from the word “boatswain,” which is a rank in the Navy. The word “pipe” refers to the sound produced by the instrument.
Example Sentences
- The captain blew the boatswain’s pipe to signal the start of the day.
- The boatswain’s pipe was used to call the crew to attention during the inspection.
- The sailor sounded the boatswain’s pipe to warn the crew of an approaching storm.
The boatswain’s pipe is an important instrument used by sailors to issue commands and maintain order on a ship. It has a long history and is associated with the Navy, maritime traditions, and seafaring culture. The boatswain’s pipe is also known as a bosun’s whistle or a bosun’s call and is considered a symbol of authority and discipline.