topsail

[ top-seyl; Nautical top-suhl ]

noun

, Nautical.

1. a sail, or either of a pair of sails, set immediately above the lowermost sail of a mast and supported by a topmast.

topsail

/ ˈtɒpsəl; ˈtɒpˌseɪl /

noun

1. a square sail carried on a yard set on a topmast

Word History and Origins

Origin of topsail¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, topsail is from the Middle English word topseil. See top ¹, sail

Example Sentences

Moreover, although she carried an enormous club-topsail and a mainsail of big area, she heeled over the least of any of the boats.

From Project Gutenberg

In the 'Vigilant,' the jackyarder was set most cleverly over the jibheaded topsail when running back in the final race.

From Project Gutenberg

She might well have carried her jackyard topsail going west, and certainly wanted it, coming back with sheets off.

From Project Gutenberg

A broad reach on starboard followed, 'Vigilant' setting her balloon jib-topsail very smartly.

From Project Gutenberg

At 2.50 it broke up and revealed that favourite sail in America a balloon jib-topsail, and a rare good puller it is.

From Project Gutenberg