Definition of flying dutchman in English English dictionary
a Dutch-flagged clipper that is very fast sailing, and never makes it to port, seen on the high seas, where upon being hailed, occupants request information on persons long dead, or leave messages for said people. It is considered bad luck to meet said ship
legendary Dutch ghost ship (considered by sailors to be a bad omen); captain of the ghost ship who was condemned to sail the seas until Judgement Day
a spectral ship said to be seen in storms, especially off the Cape of Good Hope a phantom ship that is said to appear in storms near the Cape of Good Hope the captain of a phantom ship (the Flying Dutchman) who was condemned to sail against the wind until Judgment Day