Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

limey

noun
/ˈlaɪmi/
Definition
A slang term referring to a British sailor, particularly one from the 18th or 19th century, often associated with the British Navy’s practice of using lime juice to prevent scurvy.
Examples
  • He called his friend a limey after they joked about their different accents.
  • During the naval history lecture, the professor mentioned how limeys helped shape maritime practices.
  • His limey humor was apparent in all his stories about life at sea.
Meaning
The term is commonly used to describe British people or can sometimes imply a stereotype about their character.
Synonyms
  • Brit
  • Tommy
  • Britisher