quartermaster

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical

n. a person on a ship who helps with steering and looks after the signals and compass.

n. a petty officer or rating responsible for steering, signals, and the maintenance of navigational equipment under the master's direction.

“The quartermaster stood at the helm, carefully following the captain's orders to change course.”

“Under the direction of the master, the quartermaster attended to the binnacle and ensured the signals were clearly visible to the rest of the fleet.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a person in a group like the Scouts who looks after the tents, stoves, and other camping gear.

n. a leadership position within a youth organization responsible for tracking and maintaining group equipment.

“As the troop quartermaster, he spent the afternoon checking that all the tents were dry and clean.”

“The scoutmaster appointed a new quartermaster to oversee the inventory of Dutch ovens and cooking utensils before the summer jamboree.”

C2 · Proficiency Formal · Technical

v. to do the work of a quartermaster by managing supplies or equipment.

v. to perform the duties associated with a quartermaster, particularly in a logistical or navigational capacity.

“He spent three years quartermastering for the local search and rescue team.”

“The veteran officer was asked to quartermaster the expedition, ensuring that all technical gear was accounted for during the ascent.”