royal sail
Definition
- Noun (Nautical):
- A "royal sail" is a square sail set on the royal mast, which is the section of the mast above the topgallant mast. It is the highest sail on a square-rigged sailing vessel, used in light winds to increase speed.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The crew hoisted the royal sail to catch the faint breeze. (They raised the uppermost square sail to utilize light wind.)
- In heavy weather, the royal sail is often furled to reduce strain on the mast. (The sail is taken down to prevent damage.)
Advanced Usage
- "royal sail" is typically used only in the context of traditional square-rigged ships, such as clippers or naval vessels from the age of sail. It is not a component on modern yachts or schooners.
- The ship's rigging included a royal sail above the topgallant, making it a full-rigged vessel. (The sail was part of the complete set of masts and yards.)
Variants and Related Words
Royal mast (n): the uppermost section of a mast, extending above the topgallant mast, to which the royal sail is attached.
- The royal mast is slender and requires careful maintenance. (The topmost part of the mast supporting the royal sail.)
Royal yard (n): the horizontal spar from which the royal sail is suspended.
- The sailor climbed to the royal yard to secure the sail. (The crossbar holding the royal sail.)
Synonyms
- None direct; the term is specific to nautical rigging. However, it may be loosely referred to as a topmost sail in general sailing terminology.
Phrasal Verbs
Set the royal sail: to unfurl and hoist the royal sail into position.
- The captain ordered the crew to set the royal sail as the wind increased. (Raise and deploy the royal sail.)
Furl the royal sail: to roll up or stow the royal sail.
- Before the storm, they furled the royal sail to prevent damage. (Take down and secure the sail.)
Related Idioms
- None common; the term is highly technical and not used in idiomatic expressions.