banksmen
|banks-man|
/ˈbæŋksmən/
(banksman)
person who stands at the bank/edge to handle or direct
Etymology
'banksman' originates from English, formed as a compound of 'bank' and 'man', where 'bank' originally referred to a 'ridge, bench, or the side of a river/embankment' and 'man' meant 'person'.
'banksman' developed from earlier English compound forms such as 'bankman' in Middle/early Modern English and later became established as 'banksman' in modern usage, particularly in nautical and industrial contexts.
Initially, it could refer to a man associated with a bank or embankment (a side or ridge); over time the meaning specialised to 'a person who gives signals and directs vehicle or crane movements' and is used in docks, construction sites and similar workplaces.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'banksman'.
The banksmen signalled clearly to the lorry driver as he reversed.
Noun 2
workers who give signals and direct the movement of vehicles or loads (especially at docks, construction sites, or during crane operations); signallers directing drivers or crane operators.
At the dock, banksmen directed the truck into position so the crane could lift the container safely.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/12 09:08