198. Scrimshank: The Sailor’s Art of Shirking

Emily sets sail with Kyle this week into the nautical history of ‘scrimshank.’ With not a second to spend dawdling, the duo drift quickly into the world of whaling, sailor slang, and idle shipboard hobbies.As with many a seafaring term of yore, the deeper they dive, the murkier the etymology becomes. From ‘scrimshaw’ to ‘scrimp shanking’ to ‘skrimshander,’ there’s no time to waste (or money, for that matter) with a crew made up of naval slang, mysterious origins, and general maritime mischief. More than just a history of laziness, scrimshank tells a sea tale about work, discipline, and the language we use for getting out of both. From whaling ships to military barracks to modern workplaces, the word endures as the perfect accusation for anyone doing just about anything other than what they’re supposed to be doing.Join us every week as we explore the fascinating origins and meanings of words, uncovering the hidden stories behind language and how it evolves over time, for language enthusiasts and etymology buffs alike.Like what you hear? Follow Butter No Parsnips elsewhere:• Instagram • Facebook • TikTok • Twitch •Support the show:• Patreon • Website • Ko-fi •Produced by Seth Gliksman, Kyle Imperatore, and Emily MoyersMain theme and accompanying themes by Kyle Imperatore