How Do You Spell SPINNAKER?

Pronunciation: [spˈɪne͡ɪkə] (IPA)

Spinnaker is a type of sail that is typically used on sailing boats to catch the wind and help guide the boat. The word is spelled with three syllables and can be phonetically transcribed as /ˈspɪnəkər/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short i sound, followed by a vowel that is pronounced with a schwa. The final syllable is pronounced with the "-er" sound. Remembering the correct spelling of spinnaker is important for those who are involved in sailing or studying nautical terminology.

SPINNAKER Meaning and Definition

1. A spinnaker is a large, triangular sail that is commonly used in sailing to harness the wind from behind the boat, specifically when sailing downwind or at a broad reach. It is typically bright and colorful, and made from lightweight and highly durable fabric.

   The spinnaker is specifically designed to increase the speed and efficiency of a boat when sailing off the wind, as it catches wind from the opposite side of the mainsail. It is different from other sails, such as the jib or mainsail, due to its unique shape and purpose. The large surface area of the spinnaker allows it to catch more wind, propelling the boat faster.

   Spinnakers are often used in racing boats, where speed is essential. They are also favored by recreational sailors who enjoy the thrill of downwind sailing. Spinnakers are usually flown from a separate, specialized spinnaker pole or bowsprit, which extends the sail forward of the boat's bow.

   Though highly effective in favorable wind conditions, handling a spinnaker can be quite challenging. It requires skill and teamwork to successfully deploy, trim, and pack away the sail. Mismanaging a spinnaker can lead to accidents such as accidental jibes or wrapping the sail around the mast.

   Overall, the spinnaker is a vital tool in sailing, offering an exhilarating and efficient way to harness the power of the wind, especially when sailing downwind or at a broad reach.

Top Common Misspellings for SPINNAKER *

• spinaker 100%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SPINNAKER

• spinnakerr
• spinnakerd
• spinniker
• spinnage
• spinakker
• Spinnemaker

Etymology of SPINNAKER

The word "spinnaker" is derived from the combination of two words: "spin" and "aker".

"Spin" refers to the act of rotating or turning rapidly, which is a characteristic of the spinnaker sail when it catches the wind and induces rotation.

The origin of "spin" can be traced back to the Middle Dutch word "spinnen" meaning to twist, spin, or whirl. This term later found its way into Old English as "spinnan" with a similar meaning.

"Aker" is derived from the Norse word "akker", which translates to a sheet or sail. In the context of sailing, the term "aker" refers to a large, lightweight, and symmetrical sail.

So, when combined, "spin" and "aker" create "spinnaker", a sail that rotates or whirls due to the wind's force.

Similar spelling words for SPINNAKER

• spinacia,
• sphincter,
• spaying,
• sponger,
• spinoza,
• spengler,
• spanker,
• Spence,
• spenser,
• Sponsler,
• sphinx,
• sponge cake,
• Sponaugle,
• spinosa,
• sphingine,
• spinach,
• spencer,
• spinster,
• Spangler,
• spying,
• sponge.

Plural form of SPINNAKER is SPINNAKERS