Mast

/mæst/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A tall upright post, typically on a ship, that supports the sails and rigging.

The sailors climbed up the mast to repair the torn sail.

A structure on a ship or boat that supports the rigging and sails.

The ship's mast was made of sturdy wood and reached high into the sky.

A vertical structure that supports antennas or other equipment, often used in telecommunications.

The radio station's mast was visible from miles away due to its height.

In forestry, the fruits and seeds of trees that animals, particularly birds, feed on.

Acorns are an important source of mast for wildlife during the autumn months.

Old English 'masta', from Proto-Germanic '*mastwō', related to similar words in other Germanic languages.

to raise the mast

To erect a mast or sail, often used figuratively to mean to prepare for action.

mast of the ship

The main vertical support structure that holds the sails, used often in nautical contexts.

sailing under a full mast

To operate a vessel with sails fully deployed, indicating readiness.

sail

A piece of fabric that catches the wind and propels the boat.

rigging

The system of ropes and cables that support the mast and control the sails.

broadcast tower

A tall structure used for transmitting radio and television signals.

To be in a strong position or to have the upper hand.

After that last meeting, he felt he was really on his mast.

An insult or a term of mockery.

He called his friend a mast for forgetting the plan.