* "Skipper" is a relatively modern term: While the word "skip" itself has been around for a long time, "skipper" as a term for a ship's captain didn't become common until the 17th or 18th century.
* Medieval terms: In medieval times, captains of ships were more likely to be called:
* Master: This was the most common term, indicating the ship's leader and owner.
* Pilot: Someone with navigational expertise, not necessarily the overall captain.
* Captain: This term evolved over time but was used for the leader of a group of ships or a larger vessel.
* Other titles: Titles specific to the type of ship or trade route might be used, such as "Admiral" for a fleet leader or "Merchant" for a trade captain.
If you're encountering the word "skipper" in a medieval context, it's likely a modern interpretation or a mistake. To understand the role of a ship's leader in a medieval setting, look for terms like "master," "pilot," or "captain," and consider the context of the time.