SET SAIL Meaning and
Definition
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"Set sail" is an idiomatic expression referring to the act of starting a journey or voyage by setting a ship's sails in motion. It denotes the commencement of a sailing expedition or the departure of a vessel from a harbor, ultimately venturing out onto the open sea. This phrase originally emerged during the era of sailing ships when navigating the vast oceans relied on utilizing wind power to propel the vessel.
In a literal sense, "set sail" entails the process of unfurling the ship's sails, maneuvering them to catch the wind, and manipulating the rigging to enable the vessel to move forward. Symbolically, it represents the beginning of an adventure, a new chapter, or a significant change in one's life. The connotation of "setting sail" often evokes images of exploration, discovery, and embarking on a voyage into the unknown.
Metaphorically, "set sail" can be used in non-nautical contexts as well. It implies initiating a journey towards a specific goal or embarking on a new endeavor. It carries the notion of leaving the familiar behind, embracing challenges and uncertainties, and embracing the anticipation and excitement of what lies ahead.
Overall, "set sail" characterizes the act of beginning a voyage, either literally or metaphorically, involving the initiation of a journey, the departure from a harbor, and the embracing of new experiences and opportunities.
Common Misspellings for SET SAIL
- aet sail
- zet sail
- xet sail
- det sail
- eet sail
- wet sail
- swt sail
- sst sail
- sdt sail
- srt sail
- s4t sail
- s3t sail
- ser sail
- sef sail
- seg sail
- sey sail
- se6 sail
- se5 sail
- set aail
- set zail
Etymology of SET SAIL
The phrase "set sail" comes from nautical terminology and dates back to the time when ships sailed with the assistance of sails. "Sail" originates from the Old English word "segel" or "segelian", which referred to a large piece of fabric used to harness the wind and propel a ship forward. It has Germanic roots, with similar words appearing in other Germanic languages like Dutch ("zeil") and German ("Segel").
The word "set" in this phrase signifies the action of arranging or adjusting something, in this case, the position of the sails. When sailors "set sail", they prepare the ship for departure by adjusting the position and tension of the sails, ensuring they catch the wind effectively. The phrase has been used since the early days of seafaring and has since become a widely recognized expression for beginning a journey by boat.
Idioms with the word SET SAIL
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set sail for sm place
The idiom "set sail for (some place)" means to embark on a journey, typically involving a real or metaphorical boat or ship, toward a specific destination or goal. It implies the act of starting a new venture or endeavor, often with a sense of adventure, determination, and purpose.
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set sail (from/for…)
The idiom "set sail (from/for…)" means to begin a journey by water, especially on a ship or boat. It is often used metaphorically to indicate starting a new adventure or undertaking.
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set sail
To "set sail" means to embark on a journey, especially by boat or ship. It can also refer to starting a new endeavor or undertaking a new adventure.
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