# sailing

/ˈseɪɫɪŋ/ (US) · /sˈeɪlɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sailing
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. sport or activity

noun · CEFR A2

the sport or hobby of moving across water in a boat that uses the wind.

For teachers: the activity or sport of navigating a vessel powered by wind acting on sails.

- We went sailing on the lake every weekend during the summer.
- The coastal town attracts thousands of tourists each year who are interested in competitive sailing and maritime history.

### 2. scheduled trip

noun · CEFR B1

a planned journey by a ship or ferry at a specific time.

For teachers: a scheduled departure or voyage of a commercial vessel, such as a ferry or cruise ship.

- The next sailing to the island is at two o'clock this afternoon.
- Due to the approaching storm, the ferry company decided to cancel all evening sailings until further notice.

### 3. navigation skill

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the skill and knowledge needed to control a boat.

For teachers: the art or science of navigating and managing a vessel at sea.

- He spent years studying sailing before he attempted to cross the ocean alone.
- Mastering the intricacies of traditional sailing requires a deep understanding of both meteorological patterns and celestial navigation.

### 4. moving by sail

adjective · CEFR B1

describing a boat or ship that uses sails to move.

For teachers: relating to or powered by sails; often used to distinguish wind-powered vessels from motorised ones.

- The harbour was full of beautiful sailing ships from all over the world.
- The museum features a restored sailing vessel that was used for merchant trade in the late nineteenth century.

## Examples

- We go sailing every weekend during the summer.
- The strong winds made for perfect sailing conditions on the lake this afternoon.
- While modern engines provide reliability, many enthusiasts prefer the technical challenge of sailing, which requires a deep understanding of wind patterns and maritime currents.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.