Definition

1. Noun:
   • The principal sail on a sailing vessel's mainmast: The "mainsail" is the largest and most important sail set on the mainmast, which is the tallest or primary mast of a sailing ship or boat. It is a key component for propulsion and steering.

Usage

• The "mainsail" is a specific nautical term. It is used to describe the primary sail on the mainmast of various sailing vessels, from small dinghies to large ships.
• It is typically a single, large sail, though its shape (e.g., triangular or quadrilateral) can vary depending on the rigging of the boat.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailor hoisted the mainsail to catch the wind.
  • During the storm, a tear appeared in the mainsail.
  • Adjusting the mainsail is crucial for changing the boat's direction.

Advanced Usage

• "To reef the mainsail": To reduce the area of the mainsail by partially folding and securing it, typically done in strong winds to maintain control and prevent damage.

  • We had to reef the mainsail quickly as the squall approached.

• "Mainsail haul": A command or action related to setting or trimming the mainsail. (This is a traditional nautical phrase).

  • The captain shouted, "Mainsail haul!" and the crew sprang into action.

Variants and Related Words

• Mainmast (n): The principal mast of a sailing vessel, on which the mainsail is set.
• Mainsheet (n): The rope or line used to control the angle of the mainsail.
• Sail (n): A piece of material extended on a mast to catch the wind and propel a vessel. The mainsail is a type of sail.

Synonyms

• Principal sail: The main or most important sail.
• Main course: An older or alternative term for the mainsail on a square-rigged vessel. (Note: This is a related but not always identical term).

Related Phrases

• Under mainsail alone: Sailing using only the mainsail for propulsion, often in moderate conditions or for simplified handling.

  • We sailed back to the harbor under mainsail alone.

• To set the mainsail: To hoist and prepare the mainsail for catching the wind.

  • It's time to set the mainsail and begin our voyage.

Noun

1. the lowermost sail on the mainmast