Headsail: meaning, definitions and examples
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headsail
[ ˈhɛdseɪl ]
sailing equipment
A headsail is a type of sail that is set forward of the mast on a sailing vessel. It is primarily used to catch wind and propel the boat forward. Headsails are typically smaller than the main sail and are crucial for maneuverability and speed.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We adjusted the headsail to catch the best wind.
- He was skilled at trimming the headsail for optimal performance.
- The headsail played a significant role during the regatta.
Translations
Translations of the word "headsail" in other languages:
🇵🇹 vela de proa
🇮🇳 हेडसेल
🇩🇪 Vorsegel
🇮🇩 layar kepala
🇺🇦 передній вітрил
🇵🇱 żagiel przedni
🇯🇵 ヘッドセール
🇫🇷 voile d'avant
🇪🇸 vela de proa
🇹🇷 baş yelken
🇰🇷 헤드세일
🇸🇦 قولبة رأسية
🇨🇿 hlavní plachta
🇸🇰 hlavná plachta
🇨🇳 前帆
🇸🇮 glavni jadr
🇮🇸 höfuðsegll
🇰🇿 бас желі
🇬🇪 თავის ნავსი
🇦🇿 baş yelken
🇲🇽 vela de proa
Etymology
The term 'headsail' combines 'head', which has nautical origins referring to the fore part of a ship, with 'sail', derivatively from the Old English 'sægl', meaning a piece of fabric used to catch the wind. The use of headsails has been documented as far back as ancient maritime practices, where seafaring vessels relied on various types of sails to navigate winds. As sailing technology advanced through the Middle Ages and into the Age of Exploration, the headsail evolved into crucial components of ship design, offering sailors greater control and efficiency in various wind conditions. The distinction between different types of headsails, such as jibs and genoas, reflects a rich tradition of craftsmanship in sail-making, influencing modern sailing techniques and enhancing performance on water.