sea lawyer

noun

, Nautical Slang.

1. a sailor inclined to question or complain about the orders given.

sea lawyer

noun

1. slang.
   nautical a contentious seaman

Word History and Origins

Origin of sea lawyer¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

"My kid," Hambro said, "filibustering against going to bed. A real sea lawyer, that kid."

From Literature

Never allow soreheads—‘sea lawyers’ we call them on board ship—to make you discontented on board.

From Project Gutenberg

I didn’t think you such a smart sea lawyer,” said the old Admiral, rather grimly, not over-pleased, I think, at Dad’s taking up the burthen of his grievances.

From Project Gutenberg

He was one of those men who do a great deal of mischief on board a ship, and are generally known by the name of “a sea lawyer.”

From Project Gutenberg

Old Jos, as he was called, was somewhat of a sea lawyer in his way, though not the less superstitious on that account.

From Project Gutenberg