Three Sheets to the Wind: The Nautical Origins of Everyday Expressions

Very approachable and beautifully designed book with whimsical illustrations that compliment the definitions. I am not a sailor but was fascinated how many expressions we use in every day conversation that come from our our seafaring ancestors. Skyscraper, square meal, turn a blind eye, are a few of my favorite entries. I highly recommend this book.

This is the best book on sailing terms I've ever read. It is chock-full of witty references, literary quotes, and original illustrations. I've learned so much! Who knew the original "filibusters" were the pirates of the Caribbean - obstructing and delaying ship passages? It's not only fun and informative to read, it is beautifully crafted. I love the indigo blue cover! This marvelous little book is so good-looking it makes a great gift. It is a must for all sailors and those who love the sea, and for all who love words. Highly recommend!

Swingers book to sail by.

Perfect gift for my boat loving BF.

Purchased for my boss who’s an avid boater, it was perfect!

If you have some knowledge of nautical language origins, you may be disappointed in the depth of information in this book. I found that I already knew most of the phrases and descriptions that the author presented. I did do the "Look Inside" review on the book, but I was hoping for more than what i received. Your mileage may vary. Happy reading...

An enlightening and entertaining read for nautical enthusiasts and general readers alike. The entomology of dozens of historic sea going terms explained in a concise and fascinating way. The illustrations are full of whimsy and humor. Put a smile on your face while learning the antecedents of nautical history. Highly recommended.

Who Knew. . .. . .that filibusters were pirates who waylaid ships off the Caribbean coast? That a catwalk was a narrow, covered area on a ship enabling sailors to move about in wet weather? Or that the expression “feeling blue” came from a nautical event? Word lovers, history buffs, and trivia fans alike will be highly entertained. Three Sheets to the Wind is a great beach read as well as the perfect gift for the sailor in your life.

Gave this book to my son, who is a keen sailor and he thoroughly enjoyed reading it

found this to be an amusing read and there was a couple that i'd never heard off before

This is quite a nice quality book although the contents and derivations are somewhat spurious. Nevertheless quite fun to read.