shellback

noun

shell·​back ˈshel-ˌbak How to pronounce shellback (audio)
1
: an old or veteran sailor
2
: a person who has crossed the equator and been initiated in the traditional ceremony

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shellback was in 1853

Dictionary Entries Near shellback

Cite this Entry

“Shellback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shellback. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!