
IdiomAnimals
English
an old sea dog
Meaning: An experienced old sailor.
Example: “The harbor café was full of old sea dogs telling storm stories.”
Origin: "Sea dog" for a seasoned sailor is found from the 16th century; the Elizabethan privateers such as Francis Drake are often called Sea Dogs.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Un vieux loup de mer Literally: An old sea wolf
More English idioms
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- elbow grease Hard physical work, especially scrubbing or polishing.
- not mince one's words To speak frankly, even bluntly.
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