Deadmen

/ˈdɛdmən/ noun

Definition

Plural of deadman; multiple heavy anchors or fixed points used to secure cables and guy-wires in construction or engineering.

Etymology

From 'deadman' (stationary anchor) pluralized with the archaic '-en' suffix (as in 'oxen'), though modern English typically uses '-s' for this plural. The '-en' form preserves older English plural patterns.

Kelly Says

English has dozens of irregular plurals (man/men, child/children, ox/oxen), but for technical terms like 'deadman,' speakers vary—some say 'deadmen' (using the old pattern), others say 'deadmans' (using the modern rule), and both are understandable.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of 'deadman'—a technical term where masculine generics dominated tool and fixture nomenclature, reinforcing gendered language even in neutral technical domains.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'deadweights', 'anchors', or 'fixed points' depending on context.

Inclusive Alternatives

["deadweights","anchors","fixed points","stays"]

Related Words

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