Definition

1. Noun:
   • Yard for a square mainsail: The "main yard" is a horizontal spar (pole) on a sailing ship, specifically on the mainmast, from which the mainsail is set or hung. It is a key component of the ship's rigging.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailors climbed aloft to adjust the sails on the main yard.
  • During the storm, a powerful wave snapped the main yard in two.

Advanced Usage

• "To send down the main yard": A nautical command or action meaning to lower the main yard, often to reduce sail area in heavy weather or for repairs.
  • The captain ordered the crew to send down the main yard as the gale approached.

Variants and Related Words

• Yard (n): A general term for a spar slung across a mast to support a sail.
• Mainmast (n): The principal and tallest mast on a sailing vessel.
• Mainsail (n): The principal sail set from the mainmast.

Synonyms

• Spar: A general term for a stout pole used as part of a ship's rigging.

Related Phrases

• On the yard: Refers to sailors working out on the yardarm, a dangerous position high above the deck.
  • The lookout was stationed on the yard to get a better view.

Noun

1. yard for a square mainsail