Crew

Definition

Crew is a noun and verb that refers to a group of people who work together on a task, especially in operating a vessel, aircraft, or in production settings. It also means the act of serving as a crew member.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kruː/
• Respelling: KROO

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kruː/
• Respelling: KROO

Etymology

The word "crew" originates from the Middle English "crue," meaning "band, company, or army," derived from the Old French "creue," which denotes "augmentation, increase, or recruit." It evolved to mean a group working together, especially in maritime or professional settings.

Derivatives

• Crewman (noun)
• Crewed (verb)
• Crewmate (noun)
• Crewless (adjective)
• Crewed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Team
• Staff
• Group

Antonyms

• Individual
• Single
• None

Usage

The term "crew" is commonly used to describe groups working on vessels, in aircraft, or in production teams, as in "The flight crew prepared for takeoff." As a verb, it describes serving as a member of a team, such as "They crewed the yacht during the race."

Related Terms

• Personnel: The people employed in an organization or engaged in a service.
• Squad: A small group of people having a particular task or duty.
• Unit: A group of people organized for a specific purpose.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A group of people who work on and operate a ship, aircraft, or other large vehicle: Refers to the personnel responsible for the operation and management of vessels or transportation.
  • Example: "The crew managed the ship efficiently through the storm."
• A team of people working together on a particular task: Describes any organized group collaborating to complete a job, often in film, theater, or construction.
  • Example: "The film crew set up the lights and cameras."

Verb

• To serve as a member of a crew: Refers to the action of participating in a crew’s duties, typically on a ship or aircraft.
  • Example: "She crewed the boat during the summer."