Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—G

Green Hands

(a nautical phrase). Inferior sailors, also called boys. A crew is divided into (1) Able seamen; (2) Ordinary seamen; and (3) Green hands or boys. The term “boys” has no reference to age, but merely skill and knowledge in seamanship. Here “green” means not ripe, not mature.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Green Horse
Green Gown
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