plain sail

noun

, Nautical.

1. any of the ordinary working sails of a vessel.
2. all these sails, taken collectively.

Word History and Origins

Origin of plain sail¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

When at length the wind veered sufficiently to enable the Gannet to sail close-hauled through the surf-encompassed passage, all plain sail was set, and back to Port Royal we sped.

From Project Gutenberg

When he went on deck in the morning the breeze was fresh and Columbine drove through the water under all plain sail, for they had some spare canvas on board.

From Project Gutenberg

The breeze freshened and held, Columbine with all plain sail set made good speed, and they laid off a straight course on the big Atlantic chart.

From Project Gutenberg

She was about two miles away, with all plain sail set, beating against the wind towards the northern end of the island.

From Project Gutenberg

We weighed anchor in the afternoon of October 9, and got out of the harbour under all plain sail.

From Project Gutenberg