noun
shanty
A song sailors sing while working together.
The sailors sing a shanty as they haul the rope.
Etymology
Probably from French chanter. The sailors' work-song name has a debated history, but the singing connection is the leading explanation.
More examples
- The shanty's steady rhythm helps the crew pull together.
- One sailor leads the shanty, and the others answer.
- We learn three old shanties about life at sea.
Forms
shanty · shanties
Similar words
- work song
- Includes songs accompanying many kinds of labor, not just sailing.
- sea song
- Includes songs about seafaring that do not accompany work.