SLOP CHEST Meaning and
Definition
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A slop chest is a type of small store or shop typically found on ships or vessels, typically in the merchant navy or other maritime environments. It is a provisionary store that specializes in providing essential items and supplies for sailors and crew members. A slop chest aims to offer a range of commodities required by individuals during their voyage and while on board. The store encompasses a diverse variety of goods and merchandise, including clothing, personal hygiene items, and everyday essentials.
The term "slop" refers to the loose or ill-fitting garments often worn by sailors during their time at sea. These garments were mass-produced and were known for their unrefined nature. As a result, the term "slop" eventually evolved to incorporate a broader range of items typically sold in slop chests.
The slop chest serves as a vital resource for sailors who may need replacement clothing, toiletries, or other necessities while on extended voyages. It fulfills the specific requirements of seafarers and aids in enhancing their comfort during what can often be arduous and demanding journeys. Slop chests are usually operated by the ship or vessel's owner or by the captain, though they may also be managed by dedicated onboard staff members.
Common Misspellings for SLOP CHEST
- alop chest
- zlop chest
- xlop chest
- dlop chest
- elop chest
- wlop chest
- skop chest
- spop chest
- soop chest
- slip chest
- slkp chest
- sllp chest
- slpp chest
- sl0p chest
- sl9p chest
- sloo chest
- slol chest
- slo- chest
- slo0 chest
Etymology of SLOP CHEST
The term "slop chest" has a nautical origin and is related to the word "slops". In the context of a ship, "slops" referred to the ready-made clothing and personal items sold on board to sailors. The word "slop" itself has a Dutch origin, derived from the Dutch word "slijpen", which means to sell.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, ships were often out at sea for extended periods, and sailors needed to purchase essential items such as shirts, trousers, shoes, hats, and personal hygiene products. These items were sold from a designated storage area or a chest called the "slop chest" on board the ship. The term "slop chest" became common among sailors to refer to the place where they could buy these supplies.
Similar spelling word for SLOP CHEST
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