foresail

noun

fore·​sail ˈfȯr-ˌsāl How to pronounce foresail (audio)
-səl
1
: the lowest sail set on the foremast of a square-rigged ship or schooner see sail illustration
2
: the sole or principal headsail (as of a sloop, cutter, or schooner)

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of foresail was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near foresail

foresaid

foresail

foresay

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Foresail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foresail. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

foresail

noun
fore·​sail -ˌsāl How to pronounce foresail (audio)
-səl
: the lowest and largest sail on the foremast of a square-rigged ship or schooner
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