mainsail
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of mainsail
late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; see origin at main 1, sail
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ordinary maneuvers such as tacking and gybing—both of which involve swinging the mainsail from one side of the vessel to the other—are arduous for the solo sailor.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 24, 2026
On the other boats, the helmsman has to dash around the back of the mainsail to the other side of the boat when it tacks or jibes.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 8, 2021
They have built four stationary cycling stations into each hull to tap leg power instead of traditional arm power from the grinders to power the hydraulic systems that control the wing mainsail and the daggerboards.
From New York Times ● Jun. 18, 2017
“We’re in a good space and everybody definitely remembers that,” said Ashby, who trims the giant wing mainsail.
From Washington Times ● May 24, 2017
Jerry jumped up behind them to raise the mainsail.
From "Homecoming" by Cynthia Voigt
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