Definition

A type of sail that is attached to a smaller mast and used for sailing, especially in strong winds.

Example

The sailor quickly raised the trysail to maintain control of the boat during the storm.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about using a trysail on a boat?

Yeah, I think it's used when the wind gets really strong, right?

Exactly! It's meant to be a smaller sail to help control the boat better.

That makes sense, I'd love to see one in action sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Trysail** → The word 'trysail' is formed from 'try' (from Middle English *trien*, meaning to pull or to haul) and 'sail' (from Old English *sægl*, meaning a sail or cloth for sailing). The term refers to a small sail used in heavy weather when the larger sails are reduced or taken down, thus it is a sail that is used to 'try' to maintain control of the vessel in challenging conditions.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sailor trying to keep the ship steady in rough weather with a smaller sail — that's why a trysail is used to 'try' to manage the situation.

Visually Confused Words