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

They were all under plain sail aloft and alow—27 sail of the line, frigates and steamers.

From Project Gutenberg

You are turning to windward in a fresh breeze, under all plain sail, and it becomes necessary to tack.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a strong breeze blowing aft and the barque was slugging along under all plain sail.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a light breeze from the eastward, and the frigate, under all plain sail, was standing on a bowline to the southward.

From Project Gutenberg

The barque was under all plain sail, and we were but three men to get the yards braced round.

From Project Gutenberg