maintop

American  

[meyn-top] / ˈmeɪnˌtɒp /

noun

Nautical.

1. a platform at the head of the lower mainmast.

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maintop British  

/ ˈmeɪnˌtɒp /

noun

1. a top or platform at the head of the mainmast

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Etymology

Origin of maintop

First recorded in 1475–85; main ¹ + top ¹

Example Sentences

In a twinkling the flames had risen Half-way to maintop and mizzen, Darting up the shrouds like snakes!

From Lives of Poor Boys Who Became Famous by Bolton, Sarah K.

The stroke was probably directed by an iron spindle, which was at the maintop gallantmast head.

From Narrative of the Voyages Round the World, Performed by Captain James Cook : with an Account of His Life During the Previous and Intervening Periods by Kippis, Andrew

“Hurrah!” he shouted again, this time flinging his cap in true Highland fashion half-way up to the maintop.

From The Cruise of the Snowbird A Story of Arctic Adventure by Stables, Gordon

After a chase of five hours the nearest frigate fired her foremost guns at us, which cut away the maintop bowline.

From A Sailor of King George by Bevan, A. Beckford

He ran up to the maintop once more to take a view of the situation.

From Harry Milvaine The Wanderings of a Wayward Boy by Stables, Gordon