dogman: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical (construction/rigging); Archaic/Colloquial
Quick answer
What does “dogman” mean?
A person, typically a rigger or crane operator, whose job is to assist with the positioning and movement of loads by giving signals from a point of vantage.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, typically a rigger or crane operator, whose job is to assist with the positioning and movement of loads by giving signals from a point of vantage.
A term also used historically or colloquially for a man with a pack of hounds; a man who owns, handles, or is exceptionally fond of dogs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The technical term 'dogman' is used in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK for crane crew. In the US, the equivalent role is often called a 'rigger' or 'signalperson'. The informal 'man with dogs' meaning is non-standard in both regions.
Connotations
In technical contexts, it is a neutral job title. The informal use can have a slightly rustic or humorous connotation.
Frequency
Rare outside specific industries (construction, crane operation) in Commonwealth countries. Virtually unused in everyday American English.
Grammar
How to Use “dogman” in a Sentence
The dogman [verb: signalled/guided/instructed] the crane operator.[Noun: Crane/Lift] operation requires a certified dogman.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dogman” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (Not standard as a verb)
American English
- (Not standard as a verb)
adverb
British English
- (Not standard as an adverb)
American English
- (Not standard as an adverb)
adjective
British English
- (Not standard as an adjective)
American English
- (Not standard as an adjective)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in tenders and safety documentation for construction projects.
Academic
Rare, might appear in papers on construction safety or occupational history.
Everyday
Very rare; unknown to most general speakers.
Technical
Standard term in crane and rigging operations in relevant countries.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dogman”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “dogman”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dogman”
- Using it as a general term for a veterinarian ('vet') or dog walker. Confusing it with 'dog man' (two words) as a casual descriptor.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency technical term specific to certain industries and countries.
While the job title is grammatically masculine, the role can be performed by anyone. Some industry materials now use gender-neutral terms like 'dogger' (Aus/NZ) or 'rigger'.
The dogman works on the ground, directing the load and ensuring safety. The crane operator sits in the crane cab and controls the machine based on the dogman's signals.
Etymology is uncertain. It may derive from the idea of the worker being the 'eyes' for the crane (like a seeing-eye dog), or from 'dog' meaning to grip or hold tightly (as in machinery).
A person, typically a rigger or crane operator, whose job is to assist with the positioning and movement of loads by giving signals from a point of vantage.
Dogman is usually technical (construction/rigging); archaic/colloquial in register.
Dogman: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɒɡmən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːɡmən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(Australian slang) 'Mad as a dogman' – implying someone is very eccentric or angry.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a man on the ground, watching the load like a dog watches a bone, signaling to the crane operator.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE DOGMAN IS A GUIDE (for the blind crane).
Practice
Quiz
In which industry is the term 'dogman' a standard job title?