ENGLISH
REFERENCE

old salt

idiom
Meaning

A seasoned sailor, especially one who is hardy and forthright in manner.


Examples
SIMPLE

The old salt told us stories about his life at sea.

CONTEXTUAL

Every afternoon, the old salt sits by the harbor, sharing tales of storms and shipwrecks with anyone who listens.

COMPLEX

With his weathered face and steady hands, the old salt navigated the treacherous currents as if he were reading a familiar map.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    any old nook or cranny

    Alternative form of any nook or cranny.

  2. 02

    Attic salt

    Pointed and delicate wit.

  3. 03

    bad old days

    The past, seen as a time when things were worse.

  4. 04

    big old

    Emphatically or impressively big; really big.

  5. 05

    chip off the old block

    Someone who takes after one of their parents; (generally) a person similar to another.

  6. 06

    come the old soldier

    Often followed by with: to deceive, impose upon, or take advantage of someone, as if exploiting one's superior age or experience.

  7. 07

    covenant of salt

    A long-lasting agreement.

  8. 08

    every old nook and cranny

    Alternative form of every nook and cranny.

© 2026 English Reference