sail supports crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "sail supports crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! Find all possible solutions and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've got you covered for every word length.
Solutions for "sail supports crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MAST: A strong vertical pole that holds up the sails on a ship.
BOOM: A horizontal spar extending from the mast to which the foot of a sail is attached.
5 Letters
MASTS: Multiple vertical poles that hold up the sails on a ship.
More About "sail supports crossword clue"
The term "sail supports" in a crossword clue most commonly refers to the structural elements on a sailing vessel that hold the sails aloft and in position. The primary support is almost always the MAST, a tall vertical spar that rises from the deck. Masts are crucial for harnessing wind power, allowing the ship to move.
Beyond the main mast, other important supports include the BOOM, a horizontal spar extending from the mast, which controls the angle and shape of the foot of a sail. Larger or more complex sailing ships may have multiple masts (MASTS), each serving different sails and contributing to the overall propulsion and maneuverability of the vessel. Understanding these basic components of sailing helps in quickly identifying the correct crossword answers.
These supports are not just static poles; they are part of an intricate system of rigging, including ropes and cables, which allows sailors to hoist, lower, and adjust the sails according to wind conditions. The engineering behind these structures has evolved over centuries, making modern sailing vessels both efficient and robust.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Plural: If an answer doesn't fit with a common singular term like "MAST," try its plural form, "MASTS." Crossword setters often use plurals to adjust word lengths.
- Think About Related Terms: For nautical clues like "sail supports," also consider other parts of a ship that might support or interact with sails, such as BOOM, SPAR, or YARD, depending on the number of letters.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to the surrounding clues and any intersecting letters. This can often eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the right one, especially for common words with multiple meanings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main components that support sails on a ship?
The primary supports for sails are the masts, which are tall vertical poles, and booms, which are horizontal spars extending from the mast. Other components like gaffs and yards also play supporting roles for specific sail types.
Why do some ships have multiple masts?
Ships often have multiple masts to spread out the sail area, allowing for larger total sail size without requiring excessively tall single masts, which can be structurally challenging. This also provides flexibility in handling different wind conditions and improves stability.
How can I find answers to nautical crossword clues?
When tackling nautical clues, think about common sailing terms, parts of a ship, and sea-related vocabulary. Resources like specialized dictionaries or our site, Answercrossword.com, can provide quick solutions and explanations for specific clues.