Definition

A long pole that sticks out from the front of a ship, used to support the sails and rigging.

Example

The sailor climbed up the bowsprit to adjust the sails.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a ship with a prominent bowsprit?

Yeah, they're really interesting features on sailboats.

I read that the bowsprit helps stabilize the mast.

That's right! It also gives the ship a unique look.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bowsprit → The word is formed from "bow" (from Old English *boga*, meaning the front of a ship) and "sprit" (from Middle Dutch *spriet*, meaning a pole or spar). A bowsprit is a pole extending from the front of a ship, used to support the sails.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'front of a ship' ('bow') extending with a 'pole' ('sprit') — that's what a bowsprit is.

Visually Confused Words