1. Plural of helmsman; persons who steer a ship or boat.
Usage: nautical; plural form
2. Plural of helmsman; persons who lead or direct an organization, movement, or endeavor.
Usage: figurative; plural form

Examples

• The ship's helmsmen took turns at the wheel during the long voyage.
• Experienced helmsmen must know how to navigate in rough seas.
• The company's helmsmen made strategic decisions that shaped its future.
• Several helmsmen were needed to manage the fleet of sailboats.
• The helmsmen of the political movement disagreed on policy direction.
• Young helmsmen trained for years before commanding their own vessels.