Hearties

/ˈhɑːrtiz/ noun

Definition

Plural of hearty; friendly companions or close associates; also sailors' term for shipmates and fellow sailors.

Etymology

From 'hearty' (adjective meaning warm-hearted) + '-ies' plural suffix, or from 'hearty' used as a noun for a warm-hearted person. Especially popular in nautical tradition.

Kelly Says

Pirate and sailor culture preserved 'hearties' in phrases like 'Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum'—showing that sea-going communities built their identity on being 'hearties' or loyal companions, because survival at sea depended on genuine friendship and trust.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Nautical/maritime term ('hearties,' as in 'ye hearties') historically excluded women sailors from linguistic recognition; male-coded camaraderie marker in seafaring communities.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'crew' or 'shipmates' for inclusive reference to maritime companions.

Inclusive Alternatives

["crew","shipmates","companions"]

Empowerment Note

Women served as sailors and pirates (e.g., Anne Bonny, Mary Read); gendered language erases their presence in maritime history.

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