The Old Man and the Sea Glossary

Glossary of Terms

albacore

A large pelagic tuna with long pectoral fins.

bodega

A small Hispanic grocery.

bonito

Any of several marine food and game fishes of the genus Sarda, related to the tuna.

coagulate

To congeal, as a fluid.

cumulus

A type of cloud characterized by dense individual elements in the form of puffs, mounds, or towers.

fathom

A nautical measurement equal to six feet.

filament

A long, slender series of attached cells, as in some algae and fungi.

gaff

A large iron hook attached to a pole, used to catch large fish.

gunwale

The upper edge of the side of a boat.

iridescent

Having many lustrous colors like the rainbow.

loggerhead

A rounded post, in the stern of a fishing boat, around which the harpoon line is passed.

mako

A mackerel shark.

oakum

Loosely twisted hemp or jute fiber filled with tar, used in caulking seams and packing joints.

phosphorescence

The persistent emission of light without burning, following exposure to radiations.

plankton

A mass of floating organisms, primarily microscopic algae and protozoa.

rapier

A small sword used for thrusting.

sargasso weed

Any seaweed of the genus Sargassum, commonly known as gulfweed.

scythe

An agricultural tool with a long, curving blade fastened at an angle to a handle.

skiff

A flatbottomed open boat with a pointed bow and a square stern.

tern

An aquatic bird related to a gull but usually with a more slender body and bill, and smaller feet.