Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fore-and-aft sail set on the aftermost lower mast of a vessel: A "spanker" is a specific type of sail, typically set on the mizzenmast of a sailing ship.
   • A person who slaps or hits, especially as a form of punishment: A "spanker" is someone who administers a slap, usually with an open hand.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Sail):

  • The crew adjusted the spanker to catch the following wind.
  • A traditional brigantine is often recognized by its distinctive spanker sail.

• Noun (Person):

  • In the old story, the schoolmaster was known as a strict spanker.
  • My father was the designated spanker in our family.

Advanced Usage

• "To be a spanker of a [something]" (archaic/informal): Used to describe something as an excellent or first-rate example.
  • That new racehorse is a real spanker. (Meaning: It is an excellent, fast horse.)

Variants and Related Words

• Spank (verb): To slap someone, especially on the buttocks, as a punishment or in play.
  • The parent chose not to spank the child.
• Spanking (noun/adj): The act of slapping; or (as an adjective) describing something as brisk, excellent, or fast.
  • We set off at a spanking pace.

Synonyms

• For the sail: Driver, mizzen.
• For the person: Slapper, disciplinarian.

Related Phrases

• "Spanker boom": The horizontal spar (boom) to which the foot of a spanker sail is attached.
  • Secure the line to the spanker boom.

Noun

1. a fore-and-aft sail set on the aftermost lower mast (usually the mizzenmast) of a vessel
2. a hitter who slaps (usually another person) with an open hand
   • someone slapped me on the back and I turned to see who the slapper was
   • my father was the designated spanker in our family