# collier

/ˈkɑɫjɝ/ (US) · /kˈɒliɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/collier
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. coal miner

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

a person who works in a coal mine.

For teachers: a coal miner or someone involved in the production and distribution of coal.

- The old collier spent forty years working deep underground in the pits.
- By the mid-nineteenth century, the life of a collier was defined by grueling shifts and the constant threat of structural collapses within the mines.

Usage: Common in historical literature but largely replaced by 'miner' in modern speech.

Teaching tip: This term is mostly found in British historical contexts or literature about the industrial revolution.

### 2. coal-carrying ship

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a large ship used for carrying coal.

For teachers: a bulk cargo vessel specifically designed or used for transporting coal by sea.

- The collier arrived at the port to unload tons of coal for the power station.
- The fleet consisted mainly of colliers, which were essential for maintaining the fuel supply to the coastal cities during the winter months.

Usage: Used as a technical term in maritime history and shipping.

Teaching tip: In a nautical context, this refers to the ship itself, not the crew, though it can occasionally refer to a sailor on such a ship.

## Examples

- The old collier spent thirty years working underground.
- The harbor was crowded with colliers waiting to unload their heavy cargo of fuel for the city's factories.
- During the industrial revolution, the steady arrival of colliers at the port was essential for maintaining the steam-powered machinery that drove the local economy.

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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.