sail

word

/ˈseɪɫ/
sayl
/sˈeɪl/
sayl

Definition

To travel on water in a boat or ship, especially one moved by the wind. As a noun, it also means the large piece of cloth that catches the wind on a boat.

Usage & Nuances

As a verb, 'sail' is common for boats and ships: 'sail across the ocean', 'sail from Boston to Miami'. It can also be used more loosely for any ship journey in travel news. As a noun, common phrases include 'raise the sails' and 'a boat with white sails'. Don't confuse it with 'sale'.

Example Sentences

We sail on the lake every summer.

basic

The boat has one big sail.

basic

They will sail to the island tomorrow.

basic

If the weather stays calm, we should sail out at dawn.

natural

We spent the afternoon sailing along the coast.

natural

Once the wind picked up, the boat really sailed.

natural