Definition

A small square sail that is positioned above the royal sail on a square-rigged ship, used to catch more wind and increase speed.

Example

The crew hoisted the skysail to take advantage of the strong winds.

Conversation

Did you see the skysail on that tall ship yesterday?

Yeah, it looked amazing soaring above the other sails.

I love how it adds character to the vessel.

Definitely! It makes sailing feel so much more adventurous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skysail is formed from "sky" (from Old Norse *ský*, meaning cloud or sky) and "sail" (from Old English *sægl*, meaning a piece of cloth used to catch the wind). The word "skysail" refers to a sail that is set high on a ship's mast, catching the winds in the upper atmosphere.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sail that catches the winds high up in the clouds — that's why a skysail is a sail set in the sky.

Visually Confused Words