Windjammer: meaning, definitions and examples

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windjammer

 

[ ˈwɪndˌdʒæmər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sailing vessel

A windjammer is a large sailing ship, typically used for transporting cargo and passengers across oceans. These vessels are characterized by their impressive sail plans and ability to harness wind power for navigation. The term is often associated with ships from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, which were notable for their size and speed. Windjammers played a crucial role in maritime trade before the advent of steam-powered ships. Today, they are often celebrated in maritime history and used for recreational sailing.

Synonyms

barque, sailing ship, tall ship

Examples of usage

  • The windjammer sailed gracefully across the horizon.
  • Windjammers were essential to transatlantic trade in the 1800s.
  • Tourists love to experience sailing on a historic windjammer.

Translations

Translations of the word "windjammer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 barco à vela

🇮🇳 पवनचक्की

🇩🇪 Windjammer

🇮🇩 kapal layar

🇺🇦 вітрильник

🇵🇱 żaglowiec

🇯🇵 ウィンドジャマー

🇫🇷 voilier

🇪🇸 velero

🇹🇷 yelkenli tekne

🇰🇷 범선

🇸🇦 سفينة شراعية

🇨🇿 plachetnice

🇸🇰 plachetnica

🇨🇳 帆船

🇸🇮 jadrnica

🇮🇸 segla

🇰🇿 желкенді қайық

🇬🇪 帆船

🇦🇿 yelkənli gəmi

🇲🇽 velero

Etymology

The word 'windjammer' originates from the combination of the words 'wind' and 'jammer.' The term 'jammer' is derived from the German word 'jammer,' meaning 'to complain' or 'to lament,' which was used in a nautical context to describe the act of sailing against the wind or in difficult conditions. This term emerged in the late 19th century during a period when large sailing vessels were being overshadowed by steam-powered ships. As sailing technology evolved, the large and majestic vessels that continued to be used for trade were affectionately termed windjammers, highlighting both their size and their reliance on wind as a primary means of propulsion. Over time, this nomenclature became a symbol of maritime heritage, linking the adventure of sailing with the romance of the sea.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,011, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.