What is a Salty Dog?
Salty Dog
Define Salty Dog
/ˈsôltē/ /dôɡ/
adjective
- a nickname for a seasoned US Navy Sailor who has spent much of his military tenure aboard a ship at sea. A Salty Dog is often given increased credibility by shipmates in matters pertaining to ship-board life and duties even through their rank may not correspond with the duties assigned. Also known as an “Old Salt,” or “True Grit.”
- a nickname for a US Marine who has served for many enlistments and whose uniforms has faded as a result of being worn so many times. Rather than being a Devil Dog, the Marine is referred to as a “Salty Dog.” The colloquial nickname for US Marines is “Devil Dog.”
- The original mascot for the US Marines, “Chesty I,” who is rumored to have been demoted due to an altercation with another dog. Sgt. Chesty was said to be salty about the incident.
- a nickname for an ornery Sailor