Foresail: meaning, definitions and examples

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foresail

 

[ ˈfɔːrseɪl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sailing term

A foresail is a type of sail set forward of the mast on a sailing vessel. It plays a crucial role in the overall performance and handling of the ship, particularly when it comes to wind direction and sailing speed. The foresail can help provide additional power to the boat, especially when navigating into the wind. It is often used in conjunction with other sails, like the mainsail, to optimize sailing efficiency.

Synonyms

headsail, jib, sail

Examples of usage

  • The sailor adjusted the foresail to catch more wind.
  • With the new foresail design, the yacht can sail faster.
  • He learned how to trim the foresail properly during the lesson.

Translations

Translations of the word "foresail" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vela de proa

🇮🇳 आगे की बेड़ा

🇩🇪 Vorsegel

🇮🇩 layar depan

🇺🇦 передній вітрило

🇵🇱 żagiel przedni

🇯🇵 フォアセイル

🇫🇷 voile de proue

🇪🇸 vela de proa

🇹🇷 ön yelken

🇰🇷 포어세일

🇸🇦 شراع أمامي

🇨🇿 přední plachta

🇸🇰 predná plachta

🇨🇳 前帆

🇸🇮 sprednja jadra

🇮🇸 fremri segl

🇰🇿 алдыңғы жел

🇬🇪 წინა帆

🇦🇿 ön yelkən

🇲🇽 vela de proa

Etymology

The word 'foresail' comes from the combination of 'fore,' meaning at or near the front, and 'sail,' which refers to a piece of fabric used to catch wind and propel a vessel. The term has its roots in Old English and Middle English sailing terminology, indicating its long-standing use in nautical contexts. Sail technology and design have evolved significantly over the centuries, adapting to various sailing practices and innovations. The foresail specifically plays a vital role in enhancing the maneuverability and speed of sailing ships, particularly during the Age of Sail when maritime exploration and trade flourished. Its design and function have been crucial in the development of modern sailing as we know it today.