Definition

A two-masted sailing vessel with the mainmast forward and a smaller mizzenmast aft, typically with a fore-and-aft sail configuration. It differs from a ketch in the position of the rear mast.

Example Usage

The captain guided the yawl through the harbor, adjusting both sails to catch the wind.

Origin

From Dutch 'jol' or German 'Jolle,' likely from Scandinavian roots referring to small boats.

Fun Fact

Yawls were traditionally used for fishing and coastal trading, and their design made them highly maneuverable in tight waters.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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