fire boss

noun

, Mining.

1. a person who inspects a mine for the presence of noxious gases, dangerous roofs, and other hazards.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fire boss¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

But they did, and a fire boss happened to be passing at the time, so he located their hiding-place.

From Project Gutenberg

Finally the fire boss went for help, and as soon as he left the boys came out.

From Project Gutenberg

The assistant superintendent, the mining engineer, the safety inspector, and the fire boss were already in.

From Project Gutenberg

“Hoover and Young, and everybody, and not one scratched,” responded the fire-boss.

From Project Gutenberg

But what if the "fire-boss" overslept himself, or happened to be drunk?

From Project Gutenberg