POWDER MONKEY Meaning and
Definition
-
A "powder monkey" refers to an individual historically associated with naval warfare, specifically during the age of sail. The term originated in the 17th and 18th centuries and is a colloquialism for a young boy or adolescent who worked in the artillery division of a vessel. The powder monkey's primary responsibility was to aid the gun crews by carrying gunpowder-filled cartridges from storage areas to the cannons or artillery pieces during battle.
These young boys were essential to naval warfare, as they played a crucial role in maintaining the constant supply of gunpowder required for continuous firing. Their duties involved handling and distributing gunpowder under stressful and dangerous conditions, often in confined spaces where accidents were not uncommon. The term "powder monkey" implies the agility and speed required for this task, as it was crucial to maintain the efficiency and firepower of a naval vessel.
While primarily associated with the age of sail, the term "powder monkey" may sometimes be used metaphorically to describe someone who is responsible for carrying out dangerous or high-pressure tasks. This usage retains the connotation of a young, nimble individual operating under intense circumstances. However, it is important to note that outside of historical and metaphorical contexts, the use of the term may be considered outdated and potentially offensive.
-
In the R.N., a boy that carries the powder to the gunners.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POWDER MONKEY
- oowder monkey
- lowder monkey
- -owder monkey
- 0owder monkey
- piwder monkey
- pkwder monkey
- plwder monkey
- ppwder monkey
- p0wder monkey
- p9wder monkey
- poqder monkey
- poader monkey
- posder monkey
- poeder monkey
- po3der monkey
- po2der monkey
- powser monkey
- powxer monkey
- powcer monkey
Etymology of POWDER MONKEY
The word "powder monkey" originated in the maritime context and refers to a role on naval warships during the age of sail. It was commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries. The term can be broken down into two parts: "powder" and "monkey".
- "Powder" refers to the gunpowder that was used as propellant for cannons on ships. The gunpowder played a crucial role in naval warfare as cannons were the primary weapons used for offense and defense.
- "Monkey" in this context refers to the young boys, usually between the ages of 10 and 15, who were assigned the job of carrying the gunpowder from the ship's magazine to the cannons during battle.
The word "powder monkey" was coined due to the combination of these two elements.
Similar spelling words for POWDER MONKEY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
