Definition

The highest part of a ship's mast, located above the lower mast and below the topgallant mast, used for supporting sails.

Example

The sailor climbed to the top of the topmast to adjust the sails.

Conversation

I was reading about sailing and learned that the topmast is the highest part of the mast.

That's interesting! I didn't know that about sailing terminology.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how much there is to know, like how the topmast affects the sails.

Absolutely! It really shows how important the mast is for sailing effectively.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Topmast** → The word is formed from "top" (from Old English *top*, meaning the highest part) and "mast" (from Old English *masta*, meaning a pole or post). A topmast refers to the highest mast on a ship, indicating its position at the top of the mast structure.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'highest part' ('top') of a 'pole' ('mast') on a ship — that's what a topmast is.

Visually Confused Words