Jack Tar (also
Jacktar,
Jack-tar or
Tar) was a common
English term originally used to refer to
seamen of the
Merchant or
Royal Navy, particularly during the period of the
British Empire. By
World War I the term was used as a nickname for those in the
U.S. Navy. Both members of the public, and seafarers themselves, made use of the name in identifying those who went to sea. It was not used as an offensive term and sailors were happy to use the term to label themselves.