noun
- a sailor who measures the depth of water using a lead line
Usage: nautical
Examples
- The leadsman called out the depth readings to the captain.
- In shallow waters, the leadsman’s job became crucial for safe navigation.
- The experienced leadsman could judge depth by the feel of the lead line.
- Before modern sonar, every ship relied on a skilled leadsman.
- The leadsman stood at the bow, casting his weighted line into the water.
- Maritime tradition required the leadsman to sing out depth measurements clearly.