mizen

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun third mast from the bow in a vessel having three or more masts; the after and shorter mast of a yawl, ketch, or dandy
noun fore-and-aft sail set on the mizzenmast

Then we set the mizen, main-top-sail, and the fore-top-sail. — Gulliver's Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World, Jonathan Swift
But presently, catching hold of the mizen shrouds, he swings himself to the deck, and in an even, unexhilarated voice, saying, “Dinner, Mr. Starbuck,” disappears into the cabin. — Moby Dick; Or, The Whale, Herman Melville
Immediately the masts were cut away, Both main and mizen; first the mizen went, The main-mast follow’d: but the ship still lay Like a mere log, and baffled our intent. — Don Juan, George Gordon Byron, Baron Byron

mizzenmast, mizenmast, mizzen

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