Nautical Term: Abaft
Definition of Abaft
The term abaft is a relative navigational term used to describe the location of one object in relation to another, with the former being farther towards the aft end of the ship or vessel (the rear of the ship). For instance, the mainmast is located abaft (behind) the foremast.
Example: The sails of the square-rigged ship were set in a specific order. The foremast was equipped with jib sails, one on each side of the mast. Further aft, the mainmast was rigged with the main and mizzen sails. The mainsail was hoisted abaft the mainmast, providing the greatest force to propel the ship forward.
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