fore-topsail

[ fohr-top-seyl, fawr-; Nautical fohr-top-suhl, fawr- ]

noun

1. a topsail set on a foremast on a ship.

fore-topsail

/ fɔːˈtɒpsəl; fɔːˈtɒpˌseɪl /

noun

1. nautical a sail set on a fore-topmast

Word History and Origins

Origin of fore-topsail¹

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

The jib accordingly was hoisted, and the fore-topsail set with four reefs in it, and an attempt made to weigh anchor.

From Project Gutenberg

Just then we were making fourteen knots, with only a foresail, a fore-topsail, and main-topsail, the latter two close-reefed.

From Project Gutenberg

Towards morning a loud report was heard, as if a gun had been fired on board: the fore-topsail had been blown from the bolt-ropes.

From Project Gutenberg

With the fore-topsail down, we remained stationary; with it up, we gradually moved ahead.

From Project Gutenberg

I know her by the token that her fore-topsail hath got a round patch of lighter canvas in it.

From Project Gutenberg