spin·na·ker (sp n  -kr)n. A large triangular sail set on a spar that swings out opposite the mainsail, used on yachts when running before the wind. [Perhaps ultimately from Sphinx, name of the first yacht to use such a sail, or spin, to move rapidly (variant of Scots spene, to run before the wind; see spindrift).] |
spinnaker [ˈspɪnəkə (Nautical) ˈspæŋkə]
n
(Individual Sports & Recreations / Sailing) a large light triangular racing sail set from the foremast of a yacht when running or on a broad reach
[probably from spin + (mo)niker, but traditionally derived from Sphinx, the yacht that first adopted this type of sail]
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  spinnaker - a large and usually triangular headsail; carried by a yacht as a headsail when running before the windheadsail - any sail set forward of the foremast of a vessel |
Translations
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