cox·swain

[kok-suhn, -sweyn]
noun
1.
the steersman of a racing shell.
2.
a person who is in charge of a ship's boat and its crew, under an officer, and who steers it.
Also, cockswain.


Origin:
1425–75; late Middle English cokeswayne. See cockboat, swain

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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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World English Dictionary
coxswain (ˈkɒksən, -ˌsweɪn) [Click for IPA pronunciation guide]
 
n
Also called: cockswain the helmsman of a lifeboat, racing shell, etc
 
[C15: from cock a ship's boat + swain]

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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00:10
Coxswain is always a great word to know.
So is ninnyhammer. Does it mean:
a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc.
a fool or simpleton; ninny.
Etymonline
Word Origin & History

coxswain
1327, from cock "ship's boat" (from O.Fr. coque "canoe") + swain "boy," from O.N. sveinn "boy, servant."
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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Example sentences
He led his group back across the reef to its landing craft and ordered the
  coxswain to make for the pier.
Do not hesitate to bring potential hazards or problems to the attention of the
  coxswain and/or other team members.
The coxswain, who steers the boat and acts as on-water coach, needs to be
  lightweight.
The officer or coxswain in charge of the boat shall remain seated or standing
  and shall not salute.
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