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Glite Dictionary
crossjack

crossjack

9.9
A square sail set low on the rear mast called the mizzenmast of a large sailing ship
  • noun
  • Archaic
translation icon : vela de cruz
  • The sailors quickly lowered the crossjack as the wind began to shift.

Examples

  • He pointed toward the crossjack, instructing the crew to adjust the ropes.

  • Maintenance on the crossjack was scheduled before the next long voyage.

  • The crossjack is essential for stability in high winds.

  • Many sailors have trouble adjusting the crossjack during storms.

  • The sailors quickly lowered the crossjack as the wind began to shift.

  • Maintenance on the crossjack was scheduled before the next long voyage.

  • He pointed toward the crossjack, instructing the crew to adjust the ropes.

Synonyms

mizzen course
vscrossjack
  • Specialized
9.9

The lowest sail on the mast at the back of a sailing ship

is specific to square rigged ships rather than any sailing vessel

Surface Forms

crossjack singular
crossjacks plural

Etymology

Crossjack comes from the parts cross meaning 'across' and jack meaning a 'small sail' or ship 'flag', so think of it as the small sail set across the mizzenmast. That's why a crossjack is the lowermost sail on the mizzenmast, the mast near the back of a square-rigged ship.