martnet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
ObsoleteHistorical, Nautical (archaic)
Quick answer
What does “martnet” mean?
A historical term for a device used to extend or tension the leech (aft edge) of a sail on a ship.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A historical term for a device used to extend or tension the leech (aft edge) of a sail on a ship.
An obsolete piece of nautical rigging or a general term for any restrictive or binding device from a historical context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No contemporary differences exist. Historically, usage would have been identical in both British and American maritime contexts given the international nature of nautical technology.
Connotations
Purely technical and historical, with no modern figurative use.
Frequency
Effectively zero frequency in modern English for both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “martnet” in a Sentence
The [sailor] adjusted the martnet.The martnet was attached to the [leech of the sail].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in historical or maritime history papers discussing sailing rigging.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Obsolete technical term in nautical archaeology or historical ship restoration.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “martnet”
- Assuming it is a modern word.
- Confusing it with 'martinet' (a strict disciplinarian).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an entirely obsolete historical term.
'Martnet' is a nautical device. 'Martinet' is a person who demands strict obedience to rules. They are different words.
No. It is only relevant for specialists in maritime history.
The function of controlling a sail's edge is handled by different, modern rigging systems, but the specific device and name are obsolete.
A historical term for a device used to extend or tension the leech (aft edge) of a sail on a ship.
Martnet is usually historical, nautical (archaic) in register.
Martnet: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɑːtnɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɑrtnɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MARTial NET used to control a sail, not for fighting but for tensioning.
Practice
Quiz
'Martnet' is best described as: