Nautical Term: Staunch

Definition of Staunch

Staunch signifies a vessel or a seaman who is still able to perform their duties effectively and efficiently, even in the face of challenging or adverse conditions at sea.

For instance, a shipwrecked sailor might be able to cling to a floating debris while his fellow sailors are desperately trying to rescue them from the raging sea. In this situation, the shipwrecked sailor can be said to be staunch because despite the dangerous and precarious circumstances he finds himself in, he remains determined and resilient in his efforts to survive and eventually be rescued.

Explore other nautical terms:

Head back to the Nautical Dictionary

Take a Tour With Us!

Recommended Reading