Sailability: meaning, definitions and examples
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sailability
[ ˈseɪ.lə.bɪl.ɪ.ti ]
sailing capability
Sailability refers to the quality of a sailboat or vessel being capable of sailing. It indicates how well a boat can be navigated and controlled using its sails under varying conditions. The term is often used in discussions regarding the design and performance of sailing crafts.
Synonyms
navigability, sailing performance.
Examples of usage
- The sailability of the new yacht impressed all the experienced sailors.
- Increased sailability means more opportunities for boat races.
- The team's focus was on improving the sailability of their prototype.
Etymology
The word 'sailability' emerged in the English language in the late 19th century, deriving from the root word 'sail'. The term 'sail' itself comes from the Old Norse 'segl', which has cognates in several Germanic languages referring to the canvas used for maritime navigation. Over time, as sailing technology and techniques developed, so did the terminology associated with different aspects of sailing. 'Sailability' specifically captures the essence of how well a vessel can move through water using wind power, a crucial factor considered by designers and sailors alike. It became significantly relevant with the rise of recreational sailing in the 20th century, highlighting a vessel's performance potential in racing and cruising contexts.