lieutenant, in the royal navy

The Sailor's Word-Book

The officer next in rank and power below the commander. There are several lieutenants in a large ship, and they take precedence according to the dates of their commissions. The senior lieutenant, during the absence of the commander, is charged with the command of the ship, as also with the execution of whatever orders he may have received from the commander relating to the queen's service; holding another's place, as the name implies in French.


♦ Lieutenant in the army. The subaltern officer next in rank below the captain.

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