Definition

Noun: 1. A small mast on a sailing vessel: Specifically, the aftermost mast on certain types of sailing ships, such as a yawl or ketch, which is smaller than the mainmast. It is typically located near the stern (rear) of the vessel.

Usage

The term "jiggermast" is a technical nautical term used to describe a specific part of a sailing ship's rigging. It is primarily used when discussing the design, history, or operation of traditional sailing vessels.

Examples

• On a yawl, the jiggermast is positioned aft of the rudder post.
• The sailor climbed the jiggermast to adjust the mizzen sail.
• Compared to the mainmast, the jiggermast is much shorter.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used interchangeably with "mizzenmast" on a yawl, though technically a yawl's mizzen is specifically called a jiggermast when it is stepped (placed) very far aft, behind the rudder post. On a ketch, the aftermost mast is simply called the mizzenmast.

Variants and Related Words

• Mizzenmast (noun): The mast immediately behind the mainmast on a sailing vessel. On a yawl, this is the jiggermast.
• Mast (noun): A tall vertical spar or structure that supports the sails on a ship.

Synonyms

• Mizzenmast (in the context of a yawl)

Notes

• "Jiggermast" is a compound word formed from "jigger" (a nautical term for a small sail or spar) and "mast." It is considered a specialized and somewhat archaic term, most commonly encountered in historical or detailed technical descriptions of sailing ships.

Noun

1. any small mast on a sailing vessel; especially the mizzenmast of a yawl