[f. gen. of LEAD sb.1 + MAN.] The man who ‘heaves’ the lead in taking soundings.
1857. S. Osborn, Quedah, xxii. 308. The rippling music of my gun-boat’s stem … and the low call of the leadsman, were the only signs of life.
1867. Smyth, Sailor’s Word-bk., Leadsman.… In Calcutta the young gentlemen learning to be pilots are called leadsmen.
1875. Bedford, Sailor’s Pocket Bk., v. (ed. 2), 153. The foremast awning stanchion … forms a good support for the leadsman’s breast-rope.
1891. Ridgely Hunt, in Scribner’s Mag., Sept., 278/2. Skilful pilots; each of whom brings his own leadsman on board.
