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

Hove to under spanker and jib.

From Reuters

Spanker league belaying pin snow rope’s end barque spyglass.

From Seattle Times

Teachers were the judge, jury and spanker — all in one.

From Washington Times

He was arrested April 20, a day after he went to the offices of KHQ television station, identified himself as the spanker and apologized to victims.

From Seattle Times

Smith was arrested on 20 April, a day after he went to the offices of KHQ television station, identified himself as the so-called “Spokane spanker” and apologized to victims, saying he had attacked up to 50 women.

From The Guardian