backstay
/ˈbækˌsteɪ/
noun
- A rope or cable on a sailboat that runs from the top of the mast to the back of the boat, helping to support the mast.
- A broken backstay can cause the mast to fall, so it is important to inspect it regularly.
- Before the race, the crew checked the backstay for any signs of wear.
- The sailor tightened the backstay to keep the mast steady in the strong wind.
Antonyms