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Jun 18, 2024 · The meaning of the term ‘fair winds and following seas’ is to wish the listener well on their way, another way of saying something like ‘farewell, God speed.’ Origin of this Idiomatic Expression
Jul 8, 2022 · Fair Winds and Following Seas have combined throughout at least the last century into a single phrase that is frequently used as a nautical benediction. “Fair Winds” is described as “safe travel; good fortune” in the Dictionary of American Regional English.
May 22, 2024 · The idiom “Fair Wings and Following Seas” takes root from a simple meaning. First, the words “fair winds” refer to how a ship benefits from how the breeze pushes the ship in the same direction as the current. Thus, establishing an easier and smoother route of travel.
Apr 30, 2024 · The phrase "fair winds and following seas" is a nautical expression that is often used as a blessing or well-wish in the maritime community. It conveys the hope for favorable conditions and a smooth journey.
Following seas, combined with high winds (especially from the stern, or from behind the boat), can be dangerous and cause a boat to yaw (turn sideways) and swamp or plow under the wave ahead, if the winds and sea are too strong or violent. The original term may have been "Fair winds and a fallowing sea" where fallow means inactive.
Aug 5, 2023 · The phrase ‘fair winds and following seas’ is a traditional Hawaiian blessing and well wishing for safe travel over the ocean. In Hawaiian, it is ‘makani ‘olu a holo kai malie’. This culturally significant saying dates back centuries and continues to be used today in Hawaii as a farewell greeting or blessing.
In simple terms: the movement of the water, the waves, and the surface, correspond with the movement of the tide. "Fair Winds and Following Seas" is really two quotes originating from different sources.
