gaff-topsail

noun

gaff-top·​sail ˈgaf-ˈtäp-ˌsāl How to pronounce gaff-topsail (audio)
-səl
: a usually triangular topsail with its foot extended upon the gaff see sail illustration

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gaff-topsail was in 1794

Dictionary Entries Near gaff-topsail

gaffsail

gaff-topsail

gaff-topsail catfish

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Cite this Entry

“Gaff-topsail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gaff-topsail. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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