# aye aye, sir

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/aye-aye-sir
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The correct and seamanlike reply, onboard a Royal Navy and US Navy ship, on receipt of an order from someone of senior rank or authority. It means "I understand the command and hasten to comply with the order."

## Examples

- The captain gave the order, and the sailor replied, 'Aye aye, sir.'
- When the commander told him to secure the rigging, the young deckhand shouted, 'Aye aye, sir,' and ran to obey.
- Though unaccustomed to naval discipline, the midshipman snapped to attention and barked, 'Aye aye, sir,' masking his fear with a crisp salute.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.