BOATSWAIN, a ship-officer, to whom is committed the charge of all the tacklings, sails, and rigging, ropes, cables, anchors, flags, pendants, &c. He is also to take care of the long-boat and its furniture, and to steer her either by himself or his mate. He
He calls out the several gangs and companies aboard, to the due execution of their watches, works, spells, &c. He is likewise provost-marshal, who fees and punishes all offenders sentenced by the captain, or a court-martial of the fleet.