Naut. [f. BOW sb.2 + MAN.] The oarsman who sits nearest to the bow of a boat.
1829. Marryat, F. Mildmay, xis, The bowman holding on with the boat-hook.
1840. R. H. Dana, Bef. Mast, xxiii. 71. The bow-man had charge of the boat-hook and painter.
