brigantine

Definition

A two-masted sailing vessel with a square-rigged foremast and a fore-and-aft rigged mainmast, common in the 17th and 18th centuries. Brigantines were favored by merchant ships and sometimes privateers for their speed and maneuverability.

Example Usage

The brigantine cut through the waves with impressive speed, its two sails catching the Atlantic wind.

Origin

From Italian 'brigantino', possibly derived from 'brigante' (brigand), as these ships were sometimes used by pirates.

Fun Fact

The brigantine was highly efficient and could sail close to the wind, making it a favorite of both traders and naval vessels during the Age of Sail.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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