Definitions for the word "sail" from multiple English dictionaries.
1. n.
An extent of canvas or other fabric by means of which the wind is made serviceable as a power for propelling vessels through the water.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
Anything resembling a sail, or regarded as a sail.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
A wing; a van.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
The extended surface of the arm of a windmill.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
A sailing vessel; a vessel of any kind; a craft.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
A passage by a sailing vessel; a journey or excursion upon the water.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
To be impelled or driven forward by the action of wind upon sails, as a ship on water; to be impelled on a body of water by the action of steam or other power.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
To move through or on the water; to swim, as a fish or a water fowl.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. n.
To be conveyed in a vessel on water; to pass by water; as, they sailed from London to Canton.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. n.
To set sail; to begin a voyage.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
11. n.
To move smoothly through the air; to glide through the air without apparent exertion, as a bird.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
12. v. t.
To pass or move upon, as in a ship, by means of sails; hence, to move or journey upon (the water) by means of steam or other force.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
13. v. t.
To fly through; to glide or move smoothly through.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
14. v. t.
To direct or manage the motion of, as a vessel; as, to sail one's own ship.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
15. n.
1 piece of material extended on rigging to catch the wind and propel a boat or ship. 2 ship\'s sails collectively. 3 voyage or excursion in a sailing-boat. 4 ship, esp. As discerned from its sails. 5 wind-catching apparatus of a windmill. v. 1 travel on water by the use of sails or engine-power. 2 begin a voyage (sails at nine). 3 a navigate (a ship etc.). B travel on (a sea). 4 set (a toy boat) afloat. 5 glide or move smoothly or in a stately manner. 6 (often foll. By through) colloq. Succeed easily (sailed through the exams). sail close to the wind 1 sail as nearly against the wind as possible. 2 come close to indecency or dishonesty. Sail into colloq. Attack physically or verbally. Under sail with sails set. [old english]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
Dictionary entries nearby:
Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "sail" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and
contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "sail" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history.
The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.
Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "sail") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.
This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brands mentioned on the page. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only.