Sailing guideThe glossary of nautical termsOur glossaries

Last updated on 01/22/2026 at 12:06 AM

English

Description

French

Français

backstay

Définition

Cable at the back of the mast stabilizing it fore-and-aft

Anglais

pataras

Français

ballast

Définition

Heavy weight placed in the keel or hull to improve a boat's stability

Anglais

ballast

Français

batten

Définition

Flexible or rigid inserts in a sail used to maintain shape and improve the sail's profile

Anglais

lattes

Français

beam

Définition

The maximum width of a sailboat measured at its widest point

Anglais

maître bau

Français

bear away

Définition

To change a sailboat's heading by turning the bow away from the wind, i.e., to head downwind

Anglais

abattre

Français

bearing

Définition

Angle measured between true or magnetic north and the direction of an observed object from the boat

Anglais

relèvement

Français

Beaufort scale

Définition

Scale used to estimate wind strength based on observable effects at sea, called the Beaufort scale

Anglais

beaufort

Français

bimini

Définition

Canvas cover placed over part of the boat, such as the cockpit, for protection

Anglais

taud

Français

inflatable boat

Définition

Small lightweight inflatable boat, often used as a tender or for coastal excursions

Anglais

zodiac

Français

bollard

Définition

A strong mooring post used to secure docking lines

Anglais

bitte

Français

boom

Définition

The horizontal spar attached to the foot of the mainsail used to control sail trim

Anglais

bôme

Français

bow

Définition

The front part of a boat or ship

Anglais

proue

Français

bulb

Définition

A weighted fin at the bottom of a keel used to increase a sailboat's stability

Anglais

bulbe

Français

buoy

Définition

A floating or fixed navigation mark used to indicate hazards, channels, or recommended routes

Anglais

balise

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