mizzenmast

Mizzenmast refers to the aft-most mast on a sailing vessel that has more than two masts. On a traditional three-masted ship it sits behind the mainmast and foremast. In fore-and-aft rigs such as ketches and yawls, the mizzenmast is the aftermost mast, and the sail on it is called the mizzen.

In square-rigged vessels, the mizzenmast may carry several square sails, including the mizzen course, and, on larger ships, the mizzen topsail and mizzen topgallant sail, depending on the rig. In fore-and-aft rigs, the mizzen generally carries a smaller sail that helps balance the vessel and improve handling, particularly when tacking or sailing at broad angles to the wind.

The mizzenmast plays a role in overall sail area distribution and vessel trim. Adding sternward sail area can reduce weather helm and provide extra propulsion when wind angles favor the after sails. The exact size and sail plan of the mizzen vary widely among vessel types and historical periods, from compact aftermasts on small cutters to full-sized masts on large square-rigged ships.

The term mizzen derives from historical nautical terminology for the aftermost mast and its sail; the mizzen sail name is often used interchangeably with mizzen to designate the aft sail on that mast. The mizzenmast remains a common feature in traditional sailing rigs and is retained on many replica and tall-ship designs.