The term 'warship officer' can be broken down into two separate job descriptions. The first is a Bosn, which is a four letter word and is short for boatswain. A boatswain is a naval officer in charge of the maintenance and operation of a ship's boats, rigging, and deck crew. The second job description is a BOSUN, which is a five letter word and is short for boatswain's mate. A boatswain's mate is a subordinate to the boatswain and assists with the maintenance and operation of a ship's boats, rigging, and deck crew.