Sail Meaning
Sail Definition & Usage
A large piece of fabric attached to a boat or ship, used to catch the wind and propel it forward.
Examples
- "The captain ordered the crew to unfurl the sail as the wind picked up."
- "We spent the day out on the water, enjoying the breeze as the sails billowed in the wind."
- "The old wooden ship had torn sails, making it difficult to reach full speed."
- "Sailing across the bay with the sail up, they felt the thrill of the open sea."
- "The sailors worked quickly to lower the sail as the storm approached."
To travel across water by using a sailboat or other sailing vessel.
Examples
- "They sailed across the Mediterranean, visiting several islands along the way."
- "He learned to sail when he was just a child, and now he competes in races."
- "We sailed from New York to Boston in just two days, thanks to favorable winds."
- "The boat sailed smoothly on the river, gliding through the misty morning air."
- "As the sun set, they sailed back to the shore, reflecting on the peaceful day."
To move smoothly or effortlessly through the air or over a surface.
Examples
- "The eagle sailed gracefully over the mountain peaks."
- "He sailed through the exam without a problem, impressing his classmates."
- "The skier sailed down the slopes, enjoying the fresh powder."
- "The paper plane sailed through the air and landed in the farthest corner of the room."
- "The cyclist sailed down the hill, feeling the wind rush past."
To succeed or advance in an effortless or smooth manner.
Examples
- "She sailed through the interview with confidence and charm."
- "His career has been sailing smoothly ever since he joined the new company."
- "The project sailed to success with little effort, thanks to the team's dedication."
- "Despite the difficulties, they sailed through the challenge and emerged victorious."
- "He sailed through the presentation, impressing everyone in the room."
Cultural Context
Sailing has a rich history, tied to exploration, trade, and naval warfare. The act of sailing has been a symbol of adventure and discovery since ancient times, from the Polynesian navigators to the Age of Exploration. Today, sailing continues to be a popular sport and pastime, as well as a symbol of freedom and escape.
The Sail Across the Horizon
Story
The Sail Across the Horizon
Liam had always dreamed of the open ocean, where the horizon stretched endlessly before him. As he stood on the deck of his small sailboat, the sail billowed in the strong winds, carrying him further from the shore. He had been sailing for hours, the water below reflecting the golden light of the setting sun. The gentle sound of the waves and the steady pull of the wind through the sail gave him a sense of freedom he had never known before. As he sailed, memories of his childhood came flooding back. His father had taught him to sail when he was young, and they had spent countless summers on the water together. 'You'll feel the wind in your soul,' his father had once said, and now, in the middle of the vast ocean, Liam understood what he meant. But sailing wasn't just about the ocean. It was about the journey. The excitement of knowing that each gust of wind would push him closer to new discoveries. The thrill of moving effortlessly across the water, the boat cutting through the waves as if it was part of the sea itself. Soon, Liam spotted a distant island, its silhouette just barely visible against the horizon. He adjusted the sail, steering the boat towards his destination. The wind shifted, and for a moment, he felt as though the boat was gliding through the air rather than sailing on the water. It was as if the ocean itself was guiding him, helping him glide smoothly to his goal. With each passing day, his journey grew easier, and he sailed through the challenges with a newfound confidence. His destination was near, but the true joy had always been in the act of sailing itself—being on the open water, feeling the power of the wind and the freedom it brought. And in that moment, as he sailed toward the island, he realized that the journey would always be just as important as the destination.