fore-topsail

[ fohr-top-seyl, fawr-; Nautical fohr-top-suhl, fawr- ]

noun

1. a topsail set on a foremast on a ship.

fore-topsail

/ fɔːˈtɒpsəl; fɔːˈtɒpˌseɪl /

noun

1. nautical a sail set on a fore-topmast

Word History and Origins

Origin of fore-topsail¹

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

On the 10th of January, it was impossible to work our fore-topsail.

From Project Gutenberg

Then there was a dull explosion heard even above the gale, and the fore-topsail split into ribbons.

From Project Gutenberg

At the second broadside, down came her fore-topsail-yard, followed soon afterwards by the fore-topmast.

From Project Gutenberg

The foreyard had been sprung, or True Blue would have brought the vessel to under her fore-topsail.

From Project Gutenberg

The topsail-yard being fished, set the fore topsail standing for the enemy's fleet; people employed repairing the rigging.

From Project Gutenberg