Sail: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to refer to large pieces of fabric used for catching the wind on a boat or ship. It can also mean the act of traveling on water using such equipment.

• They hoisted the sail and set off on their adventure.
• We will sail to the island by morning.

Refers to a strong, durable cloth used mainly for tents, backpacks, and painting surfaces. It is less commonly used to describe the fabric of a sail.

• The artist chose a large canvas for her new painting.
• They pitched a canvas tent in the middle of the forest.

Commonly used to describe large, flat pieces of fabric, paper, or other material. It is often used for bed linen, but can also refer to large pieces of paper or metal.

• She pulled the sheet over herself and went to sleep.
• They needed a large sheet of paper for their project.

A generic term for woven or felted fabric, typically used for clothing and other everyday items. It does not usually imply the specialized use of canvas or sail.

• His shirt was made of soft, fine cloth.
• She used a piece of cloth to clean the table.

Also listed again, it emphasizes the leisure or sport activity of traveling by boat using sails.

• We love to sail on the weekends.
• They sailed their new yacht off the coast.

Typically refers to traveling on a large ship for leisure, often with multiple stops at different ports.

• My parents went on a Caribbean cruise for their anniversary.
• We took a Mediterranean cruise last year and visited several countries.

Refers to the act of planning and directing the course of a vehicle, often used for ships, planes, and sometimes cars.

• The captain needed to navigate through the storm carefully.
• She learned how to navigate using a compass and map.

Generally used to describe being in control of and operating a vehicle, especially an aircraft or ship. Can also be used metaphorically.

• He was chosen to pilot the new model of the aircraft.
• She piloted the ship safely into the harbor.