Definition

The end of a horizontal pole on a ship that supports the sails.

Example

The crew adjusted the sails attached to the yardarm to catch the wind.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a ship with a yardarm?

Yeah, they're quite interesting, especially on tall ships.

I read that the yardarm helps with sail control.

Exactly! It plays a big role in how the ship navigates.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Yardarm is formed from "yard" (from Old English *geard*, meaning an enclosed area or a rod) and "arm" (from Old English *earm*, meaning a limb or branch). The term refers to the horizontal spar on a sailing ship that extends from the mast, resembling an arm extending outwards.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'yard' as a rod or area and an 'arm' as a limb extending out — together, they describe the part of a ship that reaches out like an arm.

Visually Confused Words