What are Navy Guys Called? The Various Terms and Nicknames Navy Personnel Use

Navy personnel, much like their counterparts in other branches of the military, use a variety of terms and nicknames to refer to themselves and others. While many people might simply call all military personnel 'soldiers,' there is a rich tradition of naval slang and camaraderie that differentiates sailors, roles, and even sub-cultures within the Navy. This article explores the various terms and nicknames used by Navy personnel, providing insight into the rich naval culture.

General Terms for Navy Personnel

The most common term used to refer to those in the Navy is simply sailor. This term encompasses all enlisted personnel, regardless of rank, specialization, or division. However, just like in the other branches of the military, there are many specific and colloquial terms for sailors based on their individual roles.

Nicknames and Slang in the Navy

Navy personnel often use nicknames and slang among each other, which can vary by division, specialty, and even ship or base. Here are some common nicknames and terms you might hear:

General Nicknames

Squid - A common and unofficial nickname for sailors, which has origins that are still debated among naval personnel. Boo - Short for "Booby," an unofficial term for operations or administrative personnel. This can be shortened to "Boo" to refer to a specific type of sailor. Twidgit - A term used for regular sailors, reminiscent of the idea that they would jump at the slightest command from their superiors. Sqirm - Yet another nickname for regular sailors, often used in a respectful way.

Role-Specific Nicknames

Grease Rags - Used for sailors who work on the ship's inner powerplants, often machinist mates and boiler techs. Mariner - Another generic term for sailors, often used in a professional or formal context. Navigator - A term for sailors who specialize in navigation. Salt - Used to refer to more experienced sailors, often implying they have been at sea for a long time. Shipman - A term used for those who support the ship and its operations. Tar - Often used to refer to sailors in a lighthearted, joking manner.

New Terms for Sailors

The naval world is constantly evolving, and with it, new terms and nicknames are born. For instance, Puddle Pirate is a term sometimes used by sailors to describe other sailors, often in a friendly or humorous manner. It implies the sailor is not as experienced as a true navvy, but the term can also be used in a more affectionate way to denote a sailor's dedication to their role, even if they are relatively new.

Sources and Further Reading

To dive deeper into the world of naval slang and terminology, you might want to explore the following resources:

45 Sailor Nicknames 11 Insider Insults Sailors Say to Each Other Synonyms of Sailor Limey - A Common Naval Slang Term Nautical Terms - Boating Words

From these sources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the naval community and the language used within it. Remember, the use of these terms varies widely depending on the context, the region, and the specific sub-culture within the Navy.