noun
- an additional sail set outside the square sails on a sailing ship to catch more wind
Usage: nautical
Examples
- The crew set the stunsails to take advantage of the favorable wind.
- With all stunsails flying, the ship made excellent time across the Atlantic.
- The captain ordered the stunsails to be furled as the weather deteriorated.
- Historical sailing ships often carried stunsails for extra speed in light winds.
- The stunsail booms extended well beyond the ship’s sides when deployed.
- Maritime museums display models showing how stunsails were rigged on tall ships.