Pronunciation: [pˈɪnɪs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "pinnace" can be a bit tricky, but it is pronounced as "pin-iss". The word originated from the French word "pinace", which means a small boat. In English, it refers to a small vessel that can be propelled by oars or sails. When pronounced, it has a short "i" sound in the first syllable followed by a double "n" and then a soft "c" sound at the end.
A pinnace refers to a small sailing vessel that was commonly used during the Age of Sail. Primarily designed for speed and maneuverability, a pinnace was often employed as a tender or support vessel by larger ships. The term "pinnace" originated from the Portuguese word "pinas," which referred to small sailing ships used in the Mediterranean during the 15th century.
Typically featuring a narrow and slender hull, a pinnace was rigged with two or three masts, each carrying several square sails. This configuration allowed for efficient sailing even in adverse winds. Pinnaces were typically used for various purposes, such as transportation of supplies, ferrying personnel, and conducting reconnaissance missions.
In terms of size, a pinnace usually measured between 15 to 30 meters in length, with a displacement ranging from 30 to 200 tons. They often carried a crew of approximately 15 to 30 sailors, depending on the specific needs of the ship. In combat, pinnaces were sometimes armed with a small number of cannons or swivel guns to defend against attacks from enemy ships or pirates.
Over time, the term "pinnace" evolved to include different types of vessels, such as ship's boats, small fishing boats, or even small steam-powered vessels. However, its original definition strictly relates to the small, fast, and versatile sailing vessels that were prevalent during the Age of Sail.
An eight-oared light vessel belonging to a large ship; any light vessel navigated with oars and sails.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pinnace" originates from the Middle French word "pinace", which was used to describe a small sailing vessel. The French term was derived from the Provençal word "pinaz", meaning "small ship", which itself comes from the Late Latin word "pinazza". This Late Latin term was based on the earlier Medieval Greek word "pinakes", ultimately deriving from the Greek word "pinax", meaning "board" or "plank". The term "pinnace" has evolved over time and today generally refers to a sailing vessel with two or three masts that was used in the past for various purposes such as war, trade, or transportation.
