Pronunciation: [mˈɪzən] (IPA) 
The word "mizzen" is a nautical term referring to the aft sail on a three-masted sailing vessel. The spelling of this word is unique, with a "z" in the middle rather than the more commonly seen "s." This is due to the word's origin in the Middle English word "mesaine," which eventually evolved into "mizzen." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈmɪzən/, with emphasis on the first syllable and a "z" sound in the middle.
The word "mizzen" refers to the smaller triangular sail that is positioned aft or towards the rear of a sailing vessel. This particular sail is situated on the mizzen mast, which is the third and usually the smallest mast found on larger sailing ships. The mizzen mast is located behind the mainmast, which supports the larger mainsail.
The mizzen sail is important for balancing the vessel and providing additional propulsion. It helps to stabilize the ship while under sail by counteracting the forward pull generated by the mainmast and mainsail. The mizzen sail can be adjusted and trimmed to control the ship's stability and maintain proper steering.
The term "mizzen" can also be used more broadly to describe the mast itself or anything relating to that mast. For example, a "mizzen topgallant" refers to the topmost sail on the mizzen mast, while "mizzen staysail" refers to a triangular sail set between the mizzen mast and another mast.
The word "mizzen" originates from the Middle Dutch word "mesijn" or "mesei," which means "middle." It entered the English language in the early 16th century and has been used to describe the rearward sail and mast on sailing vessels ever since.
• Hindmost; nearest the stern.
• The aftermost of the fixed sails of a ship.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mizzen" has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word "mizaine" or "migenne", which can be traced back to the Late Latin word "mediana". "Mediana" referred to the middle, and in the context of sailing, it specifically denoted the mast or sail located aft, or toward the rear, of a vessel. Over time, "mizaine" evolved into "mizzen" in English, maintaining the same meaning referring to the smaller mast and sail positioned at the stern of a ship or boat.
