Main Entry:

¹sail

Pronunciation:

\ˈsāl, as last element in compounds often səl\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English segl; akin to Old High German segal sail

Date:

before 12th century

1 a (1): an extent of fabric (as canvas) by means of which wind is used to propel a ship through water (2): the sails of a ship bplural usually sail : a ship equipped with sails2: an extent of fabric used in propelling a wind-driven vehicle (as an iceboat)3: something that resembles a sail ; especially : a streamlined conning tower on a submarine4: a passage by a sailing craft : cruise

— sailed \ˈsāld\ adjective

— under sail

: in motion with sails set

[sail illustration]