Definition

To turn a square-rigged ship around by adjusting the sails so that they catch the wind in the opposite direction.

Example

The captain decided to boxhaul the ship to change its direction quickly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they had to boxhaul the ship during the storm?

Yeah, that looked really intense!

I can't believe they managed to boxhaul it without losing control.

It takes a lot of skill, but they really pulled it off.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'boxhaul' is formed from 'box' (from Old English 'box', meaning a container or case) and 'haul' (from Old English 'halian', meaning to pull or drag). The term 'boxhaul' refers to the act of pulling or dragging a box or container.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'box' as a container that you need to 'pull' or 'drag' — that's what 'boxhaul' means.

Visually Confused Words