What does parasail mean?
A parasail is a parachute-like canopy used to descend slowly through the air, most often for recreation or sightseeing. The activity typically involves a person suspended beneath the canopy while it is towed by a boat or another powered vehicle. A parasail differs from an emergency or military parachute chiefly in purpose and design: it is intended for controlled, leisurely flights and may carry a passenger or instructor. The word is also used as a verb, as in “to parasail,” meaning to take part in this form of flight. Parasailing is especially associated with seaside resorts, lakes, and other scenic locations. It offers a distinctive combination of height, speed, and relatively gentle descent, making it visually striking and memorable. Although the equipment resembles a parachute, the experience is generally recreational rather than functional, and the activity is now familiar from tourism, adventure sports, and water-based attractions.
A parachute-like canopy used for descending through the air, especially as part of a recreational activity.
"The parasail carried them high above the shoreline."
The word can also refer to the activity of parasailing when used in phrases such as “go parasailing.”
To descend or move through the air using a parasail.
"They parasailed over the bay for several minutes."
This is a relatively specialized verb, most often used in recreational or tourism contexts.
Use the plural when referring to multiple parachutes or recreational flight canopies.
"The club rents parasails and provides safety equipment."
A parasail turns an ordinary parachute into a passenger experience, letting people soar over beaches, lakes, and mountains.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of parasail
The word “parasail” was formed in the mid-20th century by combining the prefix “para-,” meaning beside or beyond, with “sail.” The compound refers to a sail-like canopy used for aerial movement. Its components continue to appear in words connected with sailing, including “sailor” and “sailcloth,” while the modern compound reflects the development of recreational parachuting and towed aerial sports.
Related word forms
How parasail is actually used
The word is most often associated with recreational activities at coastal or lakeside resorts. “Parasailing” is the standard name for the activity, while “parasail” can refer to the equipment or, as a verb, to the activity itself.
Easily confused with parasail
A parachute is designed primarily to slow a rapid descent and is commonly used for emergency or military purposes, whereas a parasail is designed for recreational or sightseeing flights.
A paraglider uses a flexible wing with lines and is piloted like an aircraft, while a parasail uses a parachute-like canopy and is typically towed or launched into flight.