topgallant mast

noun

, Nautical.

1. a mast fixed to the head of a topmast on a square-rigged vessel.

Word History and Origins

Origin of topgallant mast¹

First recorded in 1505–15

Example Sentences

Get down topgallant masts, it will be a bit of exercise for the men; let us have all the steam we can command, and—” “Batten down, sir?”

From Project Gutenberg

Royal masts, and topgallant masts and yards had from the first been struck, top masts were housed,—still frantically onward flew the ship, scudding under bare poles.

From Project Gutenberg

Nothing but the topgallant masts of the Vixen showed above the water, as she had sunk during the night.

From Project Gutenberg

The topgallant masts were sent up with their yards and sails, and by dinner-time the Flying Scud looked more like herself.

From Project Gutenberg

“We have a spare topmast and topgallant mast, Captain Weber; but I have been rummaging over the spars, and can find nothing that will do for the main-topgallant mast.”

From Project Gutenberg