This book has been compiled to embody, in one volume, the words and terms that are, or have been, used by seamen in connection with their work. It deals with navigation, seamanship, rigging, meteorology, astronomy, naval architecture, average, ship economics, hydrography, cargo stowage, marine engineering, ice terminology, buoyage and other nautical matters. The number of entries is nearly 8000; as many of these entries bear more than one definition some - having as many as five - the total number of definitions given approximates 8600. Every endeavour has been made to extend the scope of the book through as wide a range of subjects ancillary to nautical work as would be helpful and interesting to the professional mariner, and to the enquiring layman. The book ranges through numerous aspec