ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sailed

v. · adj.
US //ˈseɪɫd// UK //sˈeɪld// sailed
  1. 1 travelled by boat (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    moved across water in a boat or ship.

    travelled across a body of water using wind power or an engine.

    Example

    We sailed across the lake in a small wooden boat last summer.

    Example

    The explorers sailed around the southern tip of the continent, battling fierce winds and unpredictable currents for several weeks.

    Usage

    Often used with prepositions like 'across', 'around', or 'to'.
  2. 2 moved smoothly (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    moved quickly and easily through a place.

    moved in a smooth, effortless, or confident manner.

    Example

    She sailed into the room and started talking to everyone immediately.

    Example

    Despite the difficult questions from the board, the candidate sailed through the interview with remarkable composure.

    Usage

    Frequently used in the phrasal verb 'sail through' to mean succeeding easily.
  3. 3 having sails (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical

    describes a boat that has a specific type or number of sails.

    equipped with sails; often used in combination to specify the rigging type.

    Example

    The old three-sailed ship sat quietly in the harbour.

    Example

    The museum features a collection of square-sailed vessels that were once the backbone of the regional merchant fleet.

    Teacher's tip

    This adjective use is rare in modern conversation and is mostly found in technical maritime descriptions or historical literature.

Last updated June 20, 2026