Seaman can be a generic term for sailor.

Seaman as a rank refers to the one of the lowest ranks in a navy.  In commonwealth context it refers to the lowest rank in the navy, followed by Able Seaman and Leading Seaman, and followed by the Petty Officer ranks.  The Canadian Navy has the rank of Master Seaman between Leading Seaman and the Petty Officer ranks.

Seaman is the third lowest enlisted rank in the U.S. Navy and other navies. For the U.S.Navy the rank is just above Seaman Apprentice and below Petty Officer Third Class; this rank was formerly known as Seaman First Class. If applicable, the occupational titles of Airman or Fireman (and, formerly, Constructionman) are used in place of Seaman, but the rank remains the same. Advancement to Seaman is attained automatically after a certain number of months in service, barring any disciplinary action.

Related articles

• U.S. Navy enlisted rate insignia
• Comparative military ranks