1 definition by Banjo Groyne
A native of the Isle of Wight, by birth.
It originates from the occupation of "caulking", done by casual labourers in Island boatyards to supplement their seasonal agricultural income. It involves packing the seams in the hulls of wooden vessels with oakum and pitch or lead, to make them watertight. The process was thought to emit toxic fumes that cause brain damage; hence "caulkhead" was originally a pejorative, implying that caulkers are stupid, although it has since been adopted by Islanders with pride.
It originates from the occupation of "caulking", done by casual labourers in Island boatyards to supplement their seasonal agricultural income. It involves packing the seams in the hulls of wooden vessels with oakum and pitch or lead, to make them watertight. The process was thought to emit toxic fumes that cause brain damage; hence "caulkhead" was originally a pejorative, implying that caulkers are stupid, although it has since been adopted by Islanders with pride.
by Banjo Groyne January 20, 2019