sea letter

noun

: a ship's passport issued in time of war to a neutral vessel on leaving a port, entitling the master to sail under the flag and pass of the nation to which it belongs, and specifying its cargo and crew, the names of its captain and owners, place of lading, port of registry, and destination

called also sea brief, sea pass

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now