sail

[seɪl]

sail Definition

• 1. a piece of material extended on a mast to catch the wind and propel a boat or ship through water
• 2. travel in a boat with sails, especially as a sport or recreation

Using sail: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sail" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The sail was torn in the storm.

• Example

  They sailed across the Atlantic Ocean.

• Example

  He loves to sail on the weekends.

• Example

  We will sail to the island tomorrow.

sail Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sail

• canvas
• sheet
• rigging
• cruise
• voyage
• navigate

Antonyms for sail

• anchor
• dock

Phrases with sail

• set sail

  to begin a voyage by hoisting the sails

  Example

  We set sail at dawn.

• make sail

  to hoist the sails and begin moving

  Example

  We made sail and headed out to sea.

• take the wind out of someone's sails

  to undermine or deflate someone's confidence or position

  Example

  His criticism really took the wind out of her sails.

Origins of sail

from Old English 'segel'

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Summary: sail in Brief

The term 'sail' [seɪl] refers to a piece of material used to catch the wind and propel a boat or ship through water. It can also mean to travel in a boat with sails, often for sport or recreation. Common phrases include 'set sail' and 'make sail,' which denote beginning a voyage, and 'take the wind out of someone's sails,' meaning to undermine someone's confidence or position.