(historical) A period that lasted from the mid-16th (or mid-15th) to the mid-19th centuries, in which the dominance of sailing ships in global trade and warfare culminated.

(nautical) A sailing vessel's course in relation to the wind direction.

plural of square sail

(nautical) A sail bent to a horizontal yard set athwartships.

(nautical) A sea anchor.

plural of drag sail

Alternative spelling of studdingsail

(nautical) A large, light foresail sometimes used instead of a jib.

(nautical) Any of the sails which are used in most kinds of weather: mainsail, foresail, jib and/or mizzen. Sometimes referred to as the lowers.

(nautical) To carry an unusual amount of sail in an attempt to accelerate the speed of a vessel.