Among many colorful expressions in the English language, the phrase past the yardarm carries a unique nautical charm. While it might sound confusing to those unfamiliar with maritime jargon, it has deep historical roots and is often used in casual settings, especially when humorously referring to the time of day to enjoy an alcoholic drink. Understanding what time is considered ‘past the yardarm’ requires diving into naval traditions, the anatomy of a ship, and the evolving usage of the phrase in modern culture.
Understanding the Yardarm
To appreciate the meaning of ‘past the yardarm,’ it’s essential to understand what a yardarm is. In maritime terminology, a yardarm refers to the outermost section of a yard a horizontal spar from which sails are hung on square-rigged ships. These were commonly found on sailing ships during the age of exploration and naval dominance.
The yardarm does not refer to a specific timekeeping device or a clock. Instead, sailors used it as a crude solar guide. In the days before mechanical clocks were widespread aboard ships, sailors would observe the sun’s position relative to the yardarm to determine the approximate time of day.
Time Past the Yardarm
The phrase past the yardarm specifically relates to the time when the sun has risen high enough in the sky to be above the yardarm. Traditionally, this occurred sometime in the late morning often around 11 a.m. or noon. It marked the earliest socially acceptable time to begin drinking alcohol, particularly rum, aboard naval ships.
- 11:00 a.m.Considered a rough estimate of the time the sun passed the yardarm.
- NoonOften interpreted as the acceptable drinking time in a modern context.
Though the phrase had a practical origin, it later evolved into a humorous and informal way to justify an early drink. Sailors and civilians alike began to use it jokingly to ask whether it was too early in the day to enjoy a beverage.
Naval Tradition and Rum Rations
The British Royal Navy popularized the concept of timekeeping tied to the sun’s position. Sailors received daily rations of rum, often referred to as a ‘tot.’ The timing of this ration varied but was usually distributed after the day’s work had begun again reinforcing the notion of waiting until the sun was past the yardarm.
This naval tradition became a deeply ingrained part of maritime life, influencing many sayings, customs, and even modern drinking culture. Past the yardarm was never a rigidly defined time but was always understood to mean late morning or just before lunch.
The Modern Use of the Phrase
Today, past the yardarm is often used with a touch of irony or humor. It appears in books, movies, and casual conversation when someone wants to suggest that it’s finally an acceptable hour to indulge in a drink.
Here are a few examples of how the phrase might be used:
- It’s past the yardarm somewhere, right?
- Well, the sun’s past the yardarm time for a pint.
- Is it past the yardarm yet, or are we still pretending to be responsible?
Although people today are far removed from the sailing ships of the 18th century, the phrase maintains its playful connotation and serves as a nostalgic nod to seafaring life.
Common Misconceptions
There are a few misconceptions associated with the phrase ‘past the yardarm.’
- It doesn’t refer to a specific hour: Many assume past the yardarm means exactly noon, but it was never tied to a precise time. It is more symbolic than exact.
- Not about punishment: Some confuse the yardarm with naval discipline (like hanging), but in this context, it has nothing to do with punishment.
- It’s not obsolete: Although rooted in history, the phrase is still used today, especially in English-speaking countries, often in a lighthearted way.
The Cultural Impact
Expressions like past the yardarm enrich the English language and provide insight into past lifestyles. Maritime expressions have had a significant influence on idioms still in use today. Whether someone is three sheets to the wind or showing their true colors, the language of the sea continues to color our daily speech.
Past the yardarm remains a favorite because it blends humor, history, and just the right hint of rebellion. It appeals to anyone looking for a good excuse to relax with a drink and a story.
Use in Hospitality and Entertainment
Bars and restaurants sometimes use the phrase on signs or menus to advertise drink specials starting at lunchtime. The nautical reference adds charm and humor, helping create a relaxed atmosphere.
Even cruise ships or themed parties with a maritime motif may revive the phrase to evoke a seafaring spirit. In literature and film, characters who long for the open sea or live life on the edge are often seen using this expression.
So, what time is past the yardarm? While there’s no exact hour, it’s typically understood as the late morning, roughly around 11 a.m. to noon. It’s a light-hearted way to suggest that the day has advanced far enough for an adult beverage, rooted in centuries of naval tradition. Despite its historical origins, the phrase lives on in modern culture, offering both a sense of humor and a nod to the past.
Next time you’re reaching for a drink before noon, just smile and say, Well, it’s past the yardarm somewhere.