backstay

== English == === Etymology === From back +‎ stay. === Pronunciation === === Noun === backstay (plural backstays) (nautical) A part of the rigging of a sailing ship extending from the top of the mast (masthead) 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. A strengthening or supporting piece that is built into the back of something. ==== Coordinate terms ==== forestay ==== Translations ==== === Anagrams === stay back