E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Able-bodied Seaman.
A sailor of the first class. A crew is divided into three classes:—(1) able seamen, or skilled sailors, termed A.B.; (2) ordinary seamen; and (3) boys, which include green hands, or inexperienced men, without regard to age or size.
