Subject
Naval art and science -- Dictionaries Books
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Thomas Wilhelm
A Military Dictionary and Gazetteer Comprising ancient and modern military technical terms, historical accounts of all North American Indians, as well as ancient warlike tribes; also notices of battles from the earliest period to the present time, with a concise explanation of terms used in heraldry and the offices thereof. The work also gives valuable geographical information. Compiled from the best authorities of all nations. With an appendix containing the Articles of war, etc.
"A Military Dictionary and Gazetteer" by Thomas Wilhelm is a comprehensive reference work written in the late 19th century. This military dictionary covers a broad range of military technical terms, historical accounts of various North American Indian tribes, and records of important battles throughout history, all while providing concise explanations of terms used in heraldry and military law. The opening portion of the reference presents the foundational aspects of the dictionary, including acknowledgments, a dedication to significant military figures, and a preface detailing the purpose and scope of the work. The author expresses gratitude for the assistance received during the compilation and notes the work's intended utility for military students, historians, and practitioners. Overall, it establishes the dictionary as an expansive source of information that aims to serve a wide audience interested in military history and terminology.
W. H. (William Henry) Smyth
The Sailor's Word-Book An Alphabetical Digest of Nautical Terms, including Some More Especially Military and Scientific, but Useful to Seamen; as well as Archaisms of Early Voyagers, etc.
"The Sailor's Word-Book" by W. H. Smyth is a nautical dictionary written in the late 19th century. This work offers an in-depth exploration of nautical terminology, including definitions of maritime language from both historical and contemporary perspectives. It serves as a useful resource for both seafaring professionals and enthusiasts, encompassing terms not only relevant to naval operations but also related to areas like astronomy, natural history, and military science. At the start of the text, the author reflects on the need for a comprehensive nautical dictionary prompted by a lack of satisfactory resources in the field. The opening includes a preface by Vice-Admiral Sir E. Belcher, highlighting Admiral Smyth's career and dedication to maritime knowledge. Through the preface and introduction, readers learn about the complexities and evolutions of nautical terms, the importance of precise definitions for sailors and landsmen alike, and Smyth's personal journey in collating this wealth of information for the greater benefit of his profession.
Richard Henry Dana
The Seaman's Friend Containing a treatise on practical seamanship, with plates, a dictionary of sea terms, customs and usages of the merchant service
"The Seaman's Friend" by Richard Henry Dana is a comprehensive guide on practical seamanship written in the early 19th century. This work serves as a crucial resource for sailors, providing detailed information about ship construction, rigging, and the laws and customs governing maritime life. It is particularly aimed at those new to sea life and includes technical diagrams and practical advice for both novice and experienced mariners. The beginning of the book outlines its purpose and dedication to various stakeholders in the maritime industry, including sailors, ship owners, and legal authorities. It introduces the first section, which focuses on practical seamanship, including the construction of vessels and the management of sails and rigging. The text elaborates on the technical specifications and proportions vital for building and operating merchant vessels, offering insights into the various kinds of equipment and terminology pertinent to seamanship. This foundational content sets the stage for deeper explorations into the complexities of maritime duties and regulations as the book progresses.
J. van (Jacob) Lennep
Zeemans-Woordeboek Behelzende een verklaring der woorden, by scheepvaart en den handel in gebruik en een opgave der algemeene wetsbepalingen daartoe
"Zeemans-Woordeboek" by J. van Lennep is a comprehensive lexicon focused on nautical terminology written in the mid-19th century. The book serves as both a glossary and a guide for terms widely used in the maritime and trade fields, along with relevant legal provisions and idiomatic expressions. It aims to enhance understanding of seafaring vocabulary and maritime practices. The opening of the work introduces the author’s personal connection to the sea and his longstanding interest in dictionaries. J. van Lennep reflects on his inspirations behind compiling this work, acknowledging his experiences and the influences of various authors. The initial portion highlights the extensive labor involved in creating this dictionary, noting the challenges of achieving completeness in a lexicon, especially one as specialized as this. The author also emphasizes the collaborative effort with fellow experts to ensure accuracy and depth in the definitions provided, setting the stage for a practical resource intended for sailors and others engaged in maritime commerce.
Thomas Riley Blanckley
A naval expositor : $b shewing and explaining the words and terms of art belonging to the parts, qualities, and proportions of building, rigging, furnishing, & fitting a ship for sea
"A Naval Expositor: Shewing and Explaining the Words and Terms of Art…" by Thomas Riley Blanckley is a reference book on naval terminology written in the early 18th century. This work serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing the language specific to the design, construction, and operation of ships, along with the duties of naval officers. Its essence lies in providing clarifications on the various terms associated with shipbuilding and maritime operations. The opening of this publication introduces the reader to a meticulous arrangement of nautical terminology, ranging from the structural elements of a ship, such as the keel and mast, to the various components involved in rigging and anchoring. Each term is carefully defined, often with supplementary details about its function and application within naval contexts. This rich lexicon lays the foundation for understanding naval engineering and operations, and it caters to shipbuilders, sailors, and those involved in naval governance during the period.
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