The Lingo


Like any other language, submarine slang is constantly evolving. On the boat, a word or phrase will sometimes creep into use and linger for a few months before fading into obscurity. Other terms or expressions will become part of the vernacular and survive for decades.

Canada is (as always) in a unique position. We have run ex-USN boats as well as ex-UK boats, and our language is a case of 'something borrowed, something blue'. This list reflects primarily the OBERON/VICTORIA lingo but we are very open to adding GRILSE and RAINBOW terms also. If you feel you have something to contribute, don't hang around waiting for a Scribe to show up - drop us an email. It's just good boatsmanship.

Select any term in the window below to begin talking the talk!