sailing

1 of 2

noun

sail·​ing ˈsā-liŋ How to pronounce sailing (audio)
Synonyms of sailingnext
1
a
: the technical skill of managing a ship : navigation
b
: the method of determining the course to be followed to reach a given point
2
a
: the sport of handling or riding in a sailboat
b
: a departure from a port

sailing

2 of 2

present participle of sail entry 2

Examples of sailing in a Sentence

Noun They're going sailing next week.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Members can use wellness zones and coworking spaces, join group sailing adventures, enjoy a year-round social calendar, and take advantage of reciprocal arrangements with over 220 other clubs. — Chrissie McClatchie, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2026 Maritime intelligence company Windward AI counted just six visible Hormuz transits on Wednesday, with two flowing inbound and another four sailing outbound. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026 Even with a sufficient breeze, sailing yachts burn fossil fuels to power HVAC, cooking equipment, and outlets. — Sal Vaglica, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 Cruisers University offers seminars and hands-on courses that aim to build confidence and improve sailing skills, the release said. — Michelle Richardson, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sailing

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sailing was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing sailing

Rhymes for sailing

See All Rhymes for sailing

Browse Nearby Words

sail hook
sailing
sailing boat
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sailing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sailing. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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