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swiler
Nfld Dial.
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Spelling variants:swoiler
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
a person taking part in the seal fishery.
Also spelled swoiler to indicate the regional pronunciation ['swɔɪlɚ] and similar variants.
Quotations
1883
In the last week of February, the roads leading from the various out-ports of St. John's, begin to be enlivened by the appearance of the sealers, or, as they are called in the vernacular, "swilers," their enterprise being designated "swile huntin'."
1958
She sailed on the 1st of March, 1872 with Skipper Ned Dower in command, and a crew of able "swoilers."
1966
Mr. Robichaud, bundled in parka and bright yellow toque, mingled with a group of blood-spattered swilers, questioning them closely on their killing methods.