sprit: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2/Proficient (Specialist Nautical)Technical, Historical, Literary
Quick answer
What does “sprit” mean?
A small spar or pole, especially one which is set diagonally across a fore-and-aft sail to extend it.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small spar or pole, especially one which is set diagonally across a fore-and-aft sail to extend it.
In nautical contexts, it refers specifically to the spar extending from the mast to the peak of a fore-and-aft sail. Historically, it can also refer to any light, diagonal spar used in sailing rigs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Pronounciation may vary slightly (see IPA). The term is equally technical in both variants.
Connotations
Conveys a sense of traditional seamanship, classic yacht design, or historical sailing vessels.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Its use is confined to technical manuals, historical texts, and among sailing enthusiasts.
Grammar
How to Use “sprit” in a Sentence
The [sailor/crew] [adjusted/raised/lowered] the sprit.A sprit [extends/supports] the [sail/peak].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in historical or technical papers on naval architecture or maritime history.
Everyday
Not used in everyday conversation unless discussing sailing.
Technical
Core term in nautical engineering, sailing manuals, and boatbuilding.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sprit”
- Misspelling as 'spirit'.
- Using it as a general term for any pole on a boat.
- Incorrect stress placement.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A boom is a horizontal spar along the foot of a sail. A sprit is a diagonal spar that reaches from the mast to the peak (upper corner) of a sail.
No, it is solely a noun in modern English. Historical or poetic use as a verb is obsolete.
A spritsail is a fore-and-aft sail that is extended and supported by a sprit. The sprit gives the sail its name and defining characteristic.
Etymologically, yes. Both come from Old English 'sprēot', meaning a pole or sprout, relating to something that projects or extends.
A small spar or pole, especially one which is set diagonally across a fore-and-aft sail to extend it.
Sprit is usually technical, historical, literary in register.
Sprit: in British English it is pronounced /sprɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /sprɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'sprit' as a 'spar' that is 'split' diagonally across a sail (spr-it).
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SHIP IS A BODY: The sprit is like an arm or a rib extending to support the fabric of the sail.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a sprit?