Schooner: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'schooner' likely comes from the Dutch word 'schoener', referring to a small sailing vessel.
• Initially, the term appeared in print in the 18th century, illustrating the design's popularity among shipbuilders.
• Early American use of the word showed the influence of European nautical terminology in colonial times.

History

• Schooners were often used for fishing, trade, and smuggling, especially along the coasts of North America during the 19th century.
• The first schooners were designed in the Bay of Fundy, Canada, where the unique tidal conditions favored their fast sailing capabilities.
• Some of the fastest vessels of their time, schooners won many races and even took part in naval expeditions.

Pop Culture

• The romantic image of a schooner has appeared in numerous movies and songs, capturing the adventurous spirit of sailing.
• 'schooner' is also popularly used as a name in various fictional works, resulting in characters that embody freedom and exploration.
• Barbados and other Caribbean countries often celebrate their maritime heritage, showcasing historical schooners in festivals.

Science

• The design of a schooner allows it to sail efficiently at various angles to the wind, making it a popular choice for racing.
• Advanced sail technology in modern schooners uses lightweight materials, enhancing speed and control.
• Schooners are a great example of how human ingenuity has allowed for better navigation and exploration across oceans.

Literature

• Sailing schooners have been featured in classic literature, symbolizing adventure and the spirit of exploration in stories like 'Treasure Island'.
• Many sea shanties and poems celebrate the life of sailors aboard schooners, capturing the highs and lows of maritime journeys.
• The narrative of various novels often revolves around the lifeblood of trade and exploration, where schooners play a pivotal role.

Ranked #12,032, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

• ...
• 12029 swings
• 12030 lucrative
• 12031 invading
• 12032 schooner
• 12033 remotely
• 12034 toss
• 12035 dyed
• ...