crossjack

American  

[kraws-jak, kros-, kraw-jik, kroj-ik] / ˈkrɔsˌdʒæk, ˈkrɒs-, ˈkrɔ dʒɪk, ˈkrɒdʒ ɪk /

noun

Nautical.

1. the lowermost square sail set on the mizzenmast of a ship or of a bark with four or more masts; mizzen course.

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crossjack British  

/ ˈkrɒsˌdʒæk, ˈkrɔːdʒɪk, ˈkrɒdʒ- /

noun

1. nautical a square sail on a ship's mizzenmast

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Etymology

Origin of crossjack

First recorded in 1620–30; cross- + jack ¹

Example Sentences

The crossjack, of course, had been furled some time, with the wind being plumb aft.

From The Ghost Pirates by Hodgson, William Hope

Meanwhile, the commander had stationed lookout men on the crossjack yard and mizzen top, as well as in the weather rigging, to seek for any trace of the poor fellow.

From Crown and Anchor Under the Pen'ant by Greene, John B.

During this time we were pretty busy on deck, the second mate, Basseterre, and another French seaman, who was with him in the crossjack yard, having come down from aloft to our assistance.

From The Ghost Ship A Mystery of the Sea by Austin, Henry

His voice rings out: 'Weather crossjack brace!' which means hauling the lowest and aftermost square sail more to windward.

From All Afloat A Chronicle of Craft and Waterways by Wood, William Charles Henry

When this jigger was abolished the sail retained its lateen shape, got on to the mainmast, and became what we may call a main crossjack, thereby rendering a square mainsail impossible.

From Golden Days for Boys and Girls, Vol. XIII, Nov. 28, 1891 by Elverson, James