Shore Power

Settee

Stern

Starboard Side

Salon

Scope

Swivel

Shackles

Stern Thruster

Stabilizer Fin

Understanding the Settee in a Maritime Context

A settee is a term originating from the maritime culture and history, specifically in ship construction. It's a type of built-in seating found on boats and ships, commonly used to provide a comfortable sitting space for the crew. The term can lead to confusion as it's often used in the household furniture arena to describe a certain type of sofa. The etymological roots of settee are thought to stem from the old English word setl, which was used to describe long benches with high backs and arms. In the mid-18th century, settees began to make appearances on deck plans of ships.

In American English, the term settee is primarily used to denote a customized couch or a sofa. However, in the maritime context, Americans still acknowledge and utilise the term settee to describe the seating structure within the cockpit or the cabin of a ship or a boat. The American understanding of a settee in the maritime world underscores the importance it holds in enhancing the comfort level on sea voyages, both long and short.

Difference Between Settee, Sofa, and Couch in a Maritime Context

The terms sofa and couch are almost universally used in household furniture vocabulary. However, when translating these terms to the maritime context, a settee is usually the preferred term, though both sofa and couch may still be occasionally used. The distinguishing factor in maritime usage lies not in the structure of the seating as on land, but on their installation and location on the vessel. A settee is built into the structure of the ship, often upholstered and featuring storage space beneath. Its design is streamlined to fit the requirements and constraints of the ship, and it cannot be moved like a couch or a sofa can in a household setting.

In British maritime slang, a settee is very similar to the definition used in the United States. Within the British maritime community, a settee describes custom-built, permanent seating on a vessel generally designed with an allowance for storage underneath. It emphasizes on space-saving, comfort and practicality. It is considered an integral piece of furniture on many British vessels, especially those intended for long trips at sea.

In conclusion, while the term settee has its roots in maritime history, it's usage and relevance in this context remains strong today. Despite being commonly associated with household furniture, settees continue to serve their purpose on high seas, facilitating comfortable voyage for sailors around the globe. Understanding these terminologies and their implications can significantly enhance the experience and navigation of maritime enthusiasts, professionals, and historians alike.

Settee
Definition and Examples

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SetteeDefinition and Examples

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Settee
Definition and Examples