Emily Dickinson Lexicon

MA-TROSS', n. [D. matroos; Sw. Dan. and Russ. matros, a sailor; D. maat, a mate; maats, fellows, sailors; Fr. matelot. In Arm. martelot is a colleague. The word seems to be from mate.]

Matrosses are soldiers in a train of artillery, who are next to the gunners and assist them in loading, firing and spunging the guns. They carry fire-locks, and march with the store wagons as guards and assistants. Bailey. Encyc.