TO FLAT IN THE SAIL Meaning and
Definition
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To "flat in the sail" is a nautical term that refers to the action of reducing the amount of wind caught by the sail in order to lessen the force and speed of the boat or ship. When a sailor flattens the sail, they manipulate its shape and position in relation to the wind to achieve a decrease in sail power.
This maneuver is typically performed by adjusting the sails, either by releasing the tension on the sail controls or by trimming the sails to a flatter position. Flattening the sail reduces the sail's curvature, thereby allowing a smaller surface area to be exposed to the wind. The purpose of this action is to decrease the force exerted by the wind on the sails, thus slowing down the vessel's forward momentum and making it more controllable in adverse or challenging weather conditions.
Flattening the sail is often necessary when sailing against strong winds, as it helps to prevent the boat from heeling excessively and maintains better control of the vessel. By reducing the amount of sail power, the vessel can maintain balance and stability while navigating through unpredictable or stormy seas.
Overall, the term "to flat in the sail" refers to the deliberate adjustment or reduction of the sail's surface area in order to control and moderate the boat or ship's speed, particularly in challenging wind conditions at sea.
Common Misspellings for TO FLAT IN THE SAIL
