backstay

Example:The sailor tightened the main backstay to prevent the mast from being pushed over by the strong wind.

Definition:The principal backstay, typically the one closest to the mast and furthest forward, used primarily to counteract the force of the main sail.

Example:The crew checked all the shrouds and backstays before setting sail to ensure the mast was secure.

Definition:A stay (as a wire or rod) that holds up the mast of a ship or boat, especially one leading from the mast to the hull of the ship or to a crossbeam on the hull.

Example:They adjusted the staysail stay to better control the positioning of the sail.

Definition:A stay for maintaining tension in a staysail mast or stay.