The word "swabbies" is spelled S-W-A-B-B-I-E-S.
This term is the plural form of swabby, a slang term commonly used to refer to sailors, especially those serving in the Navy or Coast Guard. It's an informal equivalent to terms like "gob" for a seaman.
Understanding the Spelling
The spelling of "swabbies" follows a standard English pluralization rule for nouns ending in 'y':
- Singular form: Swabby
- Pluralization Rule: When a noun ends in a consonant followed by 'y', you typically change the 'y' to 'i' and add 'es' to form the plural.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Form | Spelling |
|---|---|
| Singular | Swabby |
| Plural | Swabbies |
Usage and Context
"Swabbies" is generally considered informal or slang. Its use often evokes a casual, sometimes affectionate, image of naval or Coast Guard personnel.
- Example in a sentence: "The old captain fondly recalled his days with the swabbies on the high seas, reminiscing about their camaraderie and shared duties."
This term highlights the practical, often laborious, aspects of a sailor's life, echoing the historical act of "swabbing the deck" as a common chore.
