Word: backstay
Part of speech: Noun
Syllables: back
stay
Definition: A part of the rigging of a sailing ship extending from masthead the top of the mast to the back of the ship; they support the strain on all upper masts and provide additional support to the shrouds when the wind is abaft the beam.
Morphemes:
Affix: back
Language: en
PoS: Verb
Meaning: To brace the yards so that the wind presses on the front of the sail, to slow the ship.
Affix: stay
Language: en
PoS: Noun
Meaning: A strong rope or wire supporting a mast, and leading from one masthead down to some other, or other part of the vessel.