The correct spelling of the phrase "under sail" is /ˈʌndər seɪl/. It means that a boat or ship is moving due to the power of the wind on its sails. The word "under" is pronounced with a schwa sound /ə/ followed by the consonant /n/ and a voiced dental fricative /ð/. "Sail" is pronounced with a long vowel sound /eɪ/ and a voiced alveolar lateral approximant /l/. Together, they create the phrase that describes the beautiful and efficient way boats have been propelled across the seas for centuries.
"Under sail" is a maritime expression that refers to the state or condition of a vessel that is propelled or driven forward by the force of the wind acting upon its sails. When a ship is "under sail," it means that it is actively using its sails to harness the wind's power and maneuver through the water.
This term is often used in sailing and maritime contexts to describe the specific moment when a ship's sails are raised, set, or adjusted in order to receive the wind and propel the vessel forward. It implies that the ship is no longer relying on other means of propulsion (such as an engine or oars) and is purely dependent on the wind to move.
Being "under sail" can also indicate the ship's readiness to embark on a voyage or journey by emphasizing its reliance on nature's forces and the traditional seafaring methods of utilizing wind power. The act of sailing under sail is associated with a long-standing tradition and skillful navigation, requiring the coordination and expertise of the crew to effectively handle the sails and navigate the ship's direction.
In summary, the phrase "under sail" defines the condition of a vessel when it is sailing and propelled by the force of the wind acting upon its sails, indicating its dependence on wind power and the traditional art of sailing.
Among seamen, moved by sails; in motion by sails-applied to a ship when sailing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "under sail" is a nautical phrase used to describe a vessel that is being propelled by wind power through the use of sails. The etymology of this phrase can be broken down as follows:
1. "Under": In this context, "under" means "in a state or motion of". It indicates that the vessel is operating in such a way.
2. "Sail": The term "sail" refers to a piece of fabric, usually made of canvas or similar material, that is attached to a mast or yard on a ship. Sails capture the force of the wind and use it to propel the vessel forward.
When combined, "under sail" literally means "in a state or motion of being propelled by sails". This term has been used in sailing and maritime contexts for centuries to describe the condition of a ship when it is using its sails to move.