lugsail

noun

lug·sail ˈləg-ˌsāl

-səl

: a 4-sided sail bent to an obliquely hanging yard that is hoisted and lowered with the sail

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from lug entry 3

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of lugsail was in 1677

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Browse Nearby Words

lug pole

lugsail

lug sole

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Lugsail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lugsail. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lugsail

noun

lug·sail ˈləg-ˌsāl

-səl

: a four-sided sail fastened at the top to a yard that hangs at a slant and is raised and lowered with the sail

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