IPA: /seɪl/
KK: /seɪl/
To move across water using a boat with sails, or to travel smoothly and effortlessly.
We decided to sail across the lake during the summer.
Past: sailed
Past Participle: sailed
A piece of fabric used on a boat or ship to catch the wind and help it move forward.
The sailor adjusted the sail to catch the wind better.
To navigate or control a boat or ship on water.
They decided to sail across the ocean during their vacation.
Past: sailed
Past Participle: sailed
The word 'sail' originates from Old English 'segel', meaning a piece of fabric used to catch the wind. It refers to the fabric that allows a vessel to move across water by harnessing wind power.
Think of a piece of fabric ('segel') that catches the wind to help a boat move across the water.