Wardroom
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2008-07-14T01:16:45Z
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Date the maintenance tags or general fixes
[[Image:Wardroom of HMS cavalier.JPG|thumb|right|Wardroom of [[HMS Cavalier (R73)|HMS ''Cavalier'']]]]
The '''wardroom''' is the [[Officer (armed forces)|officer]]s' [[mess]] in a [[warship]]. The term "wardroom" can also be used [[Metonymy|metonymically]] to refer to a ship's officer corps.
It provides a place of recreation as well as being a [[dining room]]. Usually, a [[galley (kitchen)|galley]] or [[scullery (room)|scullery]] adjoins the wardroom. Service is provided by [[Chief Steward|stewards]].
There is usually a [[Bar (counter)|bar]] and [[soft drink]]s can be purchased at various times at sea, with [[Alcoholic beverage|alcoholic drinks]] being available when in port. (The [[United States Navy]] does not usually serve alcoholic drinks.)
Wardrooms have rules governing [[etiquette]]. Traditionally considered taboo are three topics: politics, religion, and sex (earlier guidebooks referred to the latter as "ladies"). On large ships in peacetime, talking about professional business is frowned upon. It is also considered inappropriate to perform work or to meet with subordinates in a wardroom.
The ship's [[executive officer]] is usually the "mess president". The [[commanding officer]] is normally not a member of the wardroom, but is normally invited to join the members for special occasions.
Prior to the advent of jet airliners and modern communication, warships played a larger role in diplomacy. They transported diplomats and dignitaries and served as floating embassies where these diplomats would meet their foreign counterparts, hold formal dining in ceremonies, and complete international agreements and treaties. The wardroom was normally used for these occasions and was often lavishly appointed, particularly on warships outfitted for service as flagships.
==References==
{{Unreferenced|date=July 2008}}
[[Category:Ship compartments]]
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