How Do You Spell BURCHAM?
Pronunciation: [bˈɜːt͡ʃəm] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "burcham" is [bˈɜːt͡ʃəm], [bˈɜːtʃəm], [b_ˈɜː_tʃ_ə_m] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Pronunciation: [bˈɜːt͡ʃəm] (IPA)
Correct spelling for the English word "burcham" is [bˈɜːt͡ʃəm], [bˈɜːtʃəm], [b_ˈɜː_tʃ_ə_m] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Burcham is a term that refers to a traditional, historical practice in maritime navigation. The term originates from a combination of the words "break" and "cam," which highlights its significance in breaking the cam or stopping the rotation of the ship's steering wheel. A burcham is a device or mechanism that helps to control the direction of a vessel by regulating the steering wheel's movements.
Typically made of wood or metal, a burcham consists of a lever or arm that is connected to the ship's wheel. This lever is used to engage with the teeth or cogs of the steering gear, allowing the helmsman to bring the wheel to a halt whenever required. By manipulating the burcham, the navigator can effectively pause the steering wheel's rotation and fix it in a specific position. This action can be essential for maintaining course or making subtle adjustments in the direction of the ship.
Throughout history, the burcham has remained an indispensable tool for sailors, especially in traditional sailing vessels. Its use has been prevalent in controlling the rudder's movements and ensuring precise navigation. While modern ships and boats have transitioned to more advanced steering systems, the term "burcham" preserves the historical significance and the ingenuity associated with the practice of controlling a vessel's direction.
The word "burcham" does not have a well-established etymology. It is believed to be a regional term used in parts of England, particularly in the West Midlands region. However, it is not included in standard dictionaries, making it difficult to trace its origins.
One possibility is that "burcham" is a variation or corruption of the word "bushel", which historically referred to a measure of dry volume. This connection is suggested due to the word's association with the beer-making process, where a "burcham" is said to be a type of straw sieve used to strain malt. "Bushel" was also used in the beer-making context to measure amounts of malt. However, this is speculative, and more research is required to confirm this theory.
