Definition

Noun: A temporary mast erected on a ship to replace a mast that has been broken or lost, intended as a provisional, often makeshift, solution to allow the vessel to continue sailing until a permanent repair can be made.

Usage

The term is used specifically in nautical contexts to describe an emergency, non-permanent replacement for a ship's mast. - After the storm snapped the mainmast, the crew rigged a jury mast to keep the ship under sail. - The old sailing vessel was seen limping into port with a jury mast fashioned from spare spars.

Advanced Usage

• The concept of a "jury" rig, of which a "jury mast" is a part, refers broadly to any temporary, improvised repair made with available materials, especially at sea. The phrase "jury-rigged" is a common adjective derived from this nautical tradition.
• While "jury mast" is the specific term, it is often discussed within the broader context of emergency seamanship and survival at sea.

Variants and Related Words

• Jury-rig (verb): To assemble or construct something in a makeshift or temporary manner using whatever materials are at hand.
  • They had to jury-rig a rudder after the original was damaged.
• Jury-rigged (adjective): Describing something that has been constructed or repaired in a temporary, improvised way.
  • The jury-rigged antenna managed to pick up a distress signal.

Synonyms

• Temporary mast
• Makeshift mast
• Emergency mast

Notes on Meaning

• The word "jury" in this compound does not relate to the legal term. Its etymology is uncertain but is believed to come from Old French ("help" or "relief") or from a shortening of "injury," referring to a repair for a damaged part.
• A "jury mast" is distinct from a permanent replacement. Its primary purpose is functionality and survival, not aesthetics or long-term durability.

Noun

1. a temporary mast to replace one that has broken off