Matelot (en. Sailor)

/ma.tə.lɔ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A sailor who is part of a ship's crew.
The sailor helped maneuver the boat during the storm.
Le matelot a aidé à manœuvrer le bateau pendant la tempête.
A colloquial term for a friend or buddy.
This sailor is always ready to help me.
Il est toujours prêt à m'aider, ce matelot.
A sailor in training.
The young sailor is learning the basics of navigation.
Le jeune matelot apprend les bases de la navigation.

Etymology

From Middle French 'matelot', derived from 'matel', meaning 'cabin' or 'sailor's bed'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to have a roving life, a sailor
To refer to a person who travels a lot.
rouler sa bosse, un matelot
a coffee sailor
A friend who shares enjoyable moments.
un matelot de café
in the manner of a sailor
To act in a relaxed or carefree manner.
à la manière d'un matelot

Related Words

ship
A large boat used for transport.
navire
crew
The total group of people working aboard a ship.
équipage
pole
A pole used for navigation or adjusting sails.
bâton

Slang Meanings

Loyal friend, buddy.
This guy is a real sailor, always there for me.
Ce gars est un vrai matelot, toujours là pour moi.
Carefree and joyful person.
After a long journey, it's a joy to reunite with a sailor.
Après un long voyage, c'est un bonheur de retrouver un matelot.