WINDWARD LEG Meaning and
Definition
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The term "windward leg" refers to a segment or course of a sailing or yacht race in which the wind is coming from a direction perpendicular or at an angle to the direction in which the boat is sailing. In other words, it is a leg of the race where the boat is sailing directly into the wind. This requires the boat to tack, or zigzag, in order to make progress towards the desired destination or buoy.
During a windward leg, the boat's sails are usually trimmed in tightly to capture as much of the wind's force as possible. The crew must constantly adjust the sails and shift their weight in order to maintain balance and control. The windward leg is often the most challenging and demanding part of a race, as it requires skilled maneuvering and precise navigation to make progress against the wind.
The windward leg is crucial in sailing races, as it often determines a boat's final position. Skilled sailors strategically choose their tactics to take advantage of wind shifts and currents in order to optimize their course and outmaneuver opponents. Successful navigation of the windward leg can provide a boat with a significant advantage and propel them closer to victory.
Overall, the windward leg is a critical and intense part of a sailing race, requiring skill, expertise, and a deep understanding of wind patterns and sailing techniques to navigate effectively against the wind and sail towards the desired destination.
Common Misspellings for WINDWARD LEG
- qindward leg
- aindward leg
- sindward leg
- eindward leg
- 3indward leg
- 2indward leg
- wundward leg
- wjndward leg
- wkndward leg
- wondward leg
- w9ndward leg
- w8ndward leg
- wibdward leg
- wimdward leg
- wijdward leg
- wihdward leg
- winsward leg
- winxward leg
- wincward leg
- winfward leg
Etymology of WINDWARD LEG
The term "windward leg" has its origin in the field of sailing and navigation. Here is the etymology breakdown:
1. Windward: The word "windward" comes from Middle English "windward(e)" which is a combination of the Old English words "wind" meaning "wind" and "weard" meaning "ward" or "toward". It was first recorded in the 13th century and referred to the direction from which the wind is blowing.
2. Leg: In the context of sailing, a "leg" refers to a portion of a journey or race. The term originally comes from Middle English "legge" which means "a limb or leg of a human or animal". Over time, it acquired the additional connotation of a stage or part of a journey.
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