landlubbers

Landlubber is a nautical term used to describe a person who is unfamiliar with the sea or sailing. It is typically used by sailors to refer to individuals who lack experience with maritime life, seamanship, or the general culture of the sea. The term can sometimes carry a derogatory connotation, implying clumsiness, incompetence, or a general lack of understanding of how a ship operates.

The origins of the word are rooted in the days of wooden sailing ships. Sailors spent extended periods at sea, developing a specific set of skills and a unique way of life. Those who remained on land were seen as outsiders to this specialized community. The term likely evolved from combining "land" with "lubber," an older English word meaning a clumsy or stupid person.

A landlubber might be perceived as someone who gets seasick easily, is awkward on a moving deck, or does not understand nautical terminology. The contrast between the seasoned sailor and the inexperienced landlubber is a common theme in maritime literature and folklore. While often used humorously or playfully, the term highlights the distinct divide between life on land and life at sea.