The word "becalms" is a verb that means to calm or make still the sea. It is pronounced as /bɪˈkɑːmz/ and spelled with a "b-e-c-a-l-m-s." The pronunciation of this word is broken down into two syllables: "be" and "calms." The letter "c" is pronounced as /k/ in this word, and the final letter "s" indicates that it is a present tense verb. The spelling of this word uses the silent letters "b" and "l" to create a unique sound in the beginning and middle of the word respectively.
Becalms is the third person singular present tense of the verb "becalm." The term "becalm" is primarily used in nautical contexts to describe the act of rendering a sailing vessel motionless due to the absence or subsiding of wind. More specifically, it refers to a state where the wind speed becomes so light or sporadic that it is insufficient to keep the sails of a ship filled, causing it to become immobilized on calm waters.
When a vessel becomes becalmed, it loses the ability to move forward and may drift aimlessly or remain stationary until the wind picks up again. This phenomenon can be particularly frustrating and time-consuming for sailors, especially in regions known for unpredictable or erratic wind patterns.
In metaphorical or figurative language, the term "becalm" can also be used to describe situations in which someone or something is brought to a standstill due to a lack of progress or forward movement. It typically implies a temporary pause or halt in one's activities, often resulting in a feeling of stagnation or inertia.
Overall, "becalms" refers to the state of being stuck or motionless, both literally in a nautical context and figuratively in a broader sense.
The word "becalms" is derived from the Old English word "becalman" which means "to render calm" or "to make calm". It is a combination of the prefix "be-" (meaning "on all sides" or "thoroughly") and "calm" (meaning without wind or motion).