spanker

[ spang-ker ]

noun

1. Nautical.
   1. a fore-and-aft sail on the aftermost lower mast of a sailing vessel having three or more masts.
   2. a designation given to the mast abaft a mizzenmast, usually the aftermost mast in any vessel.
2. Informal. a smartly moving person or animal, especially a fast horse.
3. Chiefly New England. something remarkably fine.

adjective

, Nautical.

1. of or relating to a spanker mast or its rigging.

spanker

/ ˈspæŋkə /

noun

1. nautical a fore-and-aft sail or a mast that is aftermost in a sailing vessel
2. informal.
   a person or animal that moves at a quick smart pace
3. informal.
   something outstandingly fine or large

Word History and Origins

Origin of spanker¹

First recorded in 1745–55; akin to spanking

Example Sentences

As "Dolly" Spanker, my husband, he was inimitable, and brought down the house two or three times during the evening.

From Project Gutenberg

To become the owner of this old friend again and of his new companions, Spanker and Pony, was a work of necessity.

From Project Gutenberg

Spanker, spang′kėr, n. the after-sail of a ship or barque, so called from its flapping in the breeze.

From Project Gutenberg

Spanker received his congratulations with a loud laugh, and a hearty shake of the hand.

From Project Gutenberg

Spanker, in riding home full gallop the preceding day, had been thrown from her horse by an old woman.

From Project Gutenberg