What does sailing mean?
Sailing is the activity of travelling across water in a boat or ship, usually with wind filling its sails. It can refer to a recreational pastime, a competitive sport, or the practical work of operating a wind-driven vessel. The word is used broadly in British and American English and carries a sense of adventure, skill, and traditional seafaring. Sailing is also used figuratively in expressions such as “sailing into trouble,” meaning to encounter difficulties without fully understanding them beforehand. In contrast with general boating, sailing specifically suggests the use of sails, although modern sailing vessels may also have engines. Related phrases include “sailing boat,” “sailing ship,” “sailing lesson,” and “sailing race.” The word is useful because it refers both to a recognizable water sport and to a long maritime tradition that shaped trade, exploration, and travel across the world.
The activity or sport of travelling across water in a boat or ship using sails.
"Sailing has become more popular as a leisure activity."
The word is commonly used for both recreational sailing and the broader practice of travelling by sail.
To travel across water in a boat or ship, especially by using the wind to propel it.
"The ferry continued sailing through the storm."
This form is especially common in maritime descriptions and when referring to the movement of vessels.
Usually used in the plural for voyages or journeys, as in “record number of sailings.”
"The harbour recorded hundreds of sailings during the festival."
Before engines, sailing made the wind a reliable partner: ships could cross oceans when the sails were right and the route was known.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sailing come from?
The word “sailing” is formed by adding the suffix “-ing” to “sail,” which comes from Old English “segl,” meaning a sail and, by extension, a ship. The verb “sail” developed from the same Germanic roots as related forms in other Germanic languages. Modern derivatives include “sailor,” “sailcloth,” and “seafaring,” all reflecting the long association between sailing and maritime life.
Related word forms
How sailing is actually used
The noun is commonly used for both a recreational activity and the wider practice of travelling by sail. The verb is less frequent than the noun but is standard, especially in descriptions of ships and maritime activity.
Easily confused with sailing
Sailing usually implies travelling in a vessel propelled by wind, whereas boating includes travel in any small boat, including those with engines.