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Merchantman - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A merchantman is a large commercial ship used for transporting goods or cargo across seas. Historically, it referred to trading vessels involved in international commerce. The term is now somewhat archaic but still appears in literature.

merchantman

/ˈmɝːtʃəntmən/ /ˈmɜːtʃəntmən/

Definition:

A ship used for commercial trade, especially in historical contexts.

Synonyms:

trader, tradesman, dealer, vendor

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

pirate ship, warship

Common Collocations:

merchantman fleet, cargo merchantman, armed merchantman

Derivatives:

merchantmen, merchandising

Usage Tips:

Use "merchantman" to refer to historical trading ships; avoid for modern vessels like container ships.

Common Phrases:

"rich as a merchantman, " "merchantman's fortune, " "sail the merchantman"

Etymology:

From Middle English "marchanteman," combining "merchant" and "man," referring to a trading vessel.

Examples:

  • 1. The merchantman carried spices from the East Indies to Europe.
  • 2. Pirates often targeted a heavily laden merchantman for its valuable cargo.
  • 3. The old painting depicted a 17th-century merchantman sailing into harbor.
  • 4. A well-armed merchantman could defend itself against pirate attacks.

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