A bearing off spar is a term that is commonly used in the field of sailing. It is an important part of the rigging system of a sailboat, and it plays a crucial role in controlling the sail. The bearing off spar is a horizontal pole that is attached to the mast and extends outwards towards the stern of the boat. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the bearing off spar, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
A bearing off spar is a horizontal pole that is used to control the angle of the sail on a sailboat. It is typically attached to the mast and extends outwards towards the stern of the boat. The bearing off spar is used to adjust the angle of the sail in relation to the wind direction, which helps to optimize the speed and performance of the boat.
Origin
The origin of the term “bearing off spar” can be traced back to the early days of sailing. The term “bearing off” refers to the process of turning the boat away from the wind, which is necessary for sailing downwind. The spar was added to the rigging system to help control the angle of the sail during this maneuver.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bearing off spar is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a horizontal pole that is used to control the angle of the sail on a sailboat.
Associations
The bearing off spar is associated with the rigging system of a sailboat. It is an important component that helps to control the angle of the sail and optimize the performance of the boat. The bearing off spar is also associated with the process of bearing off, which is necessary for sailing downwind.
Synonyms
There are a few synonyms for the bearing off spar, including boom, gaff, and sprit. These terms refer to different types of horizontal poles that are used in the rigging system of a sailboat.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for the bearing off spar, as it is a unique component of the rigging system of a sailboat.
The same root words
The term “bearing off” is the root word for the bearing off spar. This term refers to the process of turning the boat away from the wind, which is necessary for sailing downwind.
Example Sentences
- The bearing off spar is a crucial component of the rigging system on this sailboat.
- The sailor adjusted the angle of the sail using the bearing off spar.
- The bearing off spar helped to optimize the performance of the boat during the downwind leg of the race.
In conclusion, the bearing off spar is an important component of the rigging system on a sailboat. It is used to control the angle of the sail during the process of bearing off, which is necessary for sailing downwind. The term has its roots in the early days of sailing and is consistent across different dictionaries. Understanding the function and importance of the bearing off spar is crucial for anyone who wants to sail a boat efficiently and effectively.