Skip to main content
Dictionary
Store
Blog
World
Help
Advertise
Chat
System Status
Information Collection Notice
Trademark Concerns
reCAPTCHA Privacy
Terms of Service
reCAPTCHA Terms
Privacy Policy
Accessibility
Report a Bug
Data Request
Contact Us
Security
DMCA
© 1999–2026 Urban Dictionary ®
Mugs
Tees
Hoodies
Pro Customization
Create unique products with your own words and definitions
Preview
Personalize Your Design
Your Word
Your Definition
One who works his way up to a Licensed Officer's position in either the deck or engine departments of the Merchant Marine after starting from the very bottom as either a Wiper or Ordinary Seaman. This is most commonly seen on tugs and barges nowadays, since the USCG decided that suddenly experienced sailors are too stupid to advance to these positions on deep sea vessels without college degrees. Climbing the ranks is referred to as 'climbing up the hawsepipe.' A man or woman who achieved this feat is respectfully called a hawser, or hawsepiper.
Text fits
Save
Cancel