Copatain

/koʊˈpæteɪn/ noun

Definition

An alternative spelling of copataine; one of two or more people who share the rank or authority of captain.

Etymology

From co- + patain (variant of captain, from Old French capitaine, from Latin capitaneus, one who is chief or first). This spelling is archaic.

Kelly Says

Copatain shows up in 16th-century naval and military records, but the spelling is so inconsistent that historians debate whether it's a distinct word or just a variant of 'co-captain' with historical spelling variations.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.