Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large, lightweight sail, typically triangular in shape, used on a sailing vessel, especially a yacht, when sailing downwind (with the wind coming from behind the vessel).

Usage

• The spinnaker is a specialized sail designed for optimal performance when the boat is sailing in the direction the wind is blowing. It is set forward of the mast, opposite the mainsail, to capture as much wind as possible. It is not used for upwind sailing.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The crew hoisted the colorful spinnaker as they turned downwind.
  • Handling a spinnaker in strong winds requires skill and coordination.

Advanced Usage

• "To fly a spinnaker": To have a spinnaker set and deployed.
  • They decided to fly the spinnaker for the final leg of the race.
• "Spinnaker pole": A pole used to hold the corner of the spinnaker out and away from the boat, stabilizing it.
  • The sailor adjusted the spinnaker pole to optimize the sail's shape.

Variants and Related Words

• Asymmetrical spinnaker (gennaker) (n): A modern variation of the spinnaker that is not symmetrical; it is easier to handle and is used for sailing at angles between directly downwind and across the wind.
  • Their cruiser is equipped with an asymmetrical spinnaker for easier short-handed sailing.

Synonyms

• Downwind sail: A general term for any sail, like a spinnaker, used when sailing with the wind.
• Kite (n, informal): A common informal term for a spinnaker among sailors.
  • Let's get the kite up!

Related Phrases

• "Spinnaker run": A leg of a race or a period of sailing where the boat is sailing downwind and using a spinnaker.
  • They gained a significant lead during the long spinnaker run.
• "Spinnaker drop": The act of taking down and packing the spinnaker.
  • The spinnaker drop was chaotic but successful.

Noun

1. a large and usually triangular headsail; carried by a yacht as a headsail when running before the wind