main-topmast

[ meyn-top-mast, -mahst; Nautical meyn-top-muh st ]

/ ˌmeɪnˈtɒpˌmæst, -ˌmɑst; Nautical ˌmeɪnˈtɒp məst /

the mast next above the main lower mast.

Origin of main-topmast

First recorded in 1485–95

Swan's ship had 16 guns, with a crew of 140 men, all English, and carried a Saint George's flag at her main-topmast head.

History of the Buccaneers of America |James Burney
Thus they saved the main-topmast, and probably prevented the mainmast itself from being sprung.

The Life of Admiral Viscount Exmouth |Edward Osler
The captain ordered the ensign to be hoisted to the main-topmast shrouds, and the guns to be got all clear for firing.

Thrilling Narratives of Mutiny, Murder and Piracy |Anonymous
Presently the "Boxer" lost her main-topmast, and McCall, hanging on her bow, kept up his raking fire.

The Boys of 1812 and Other Naval Heroes |James Russell Soley

The foremast went by the board, carrying with it the main-topmast, when a sea striking the ship swept over her.

The Three Admirals |W.H.G. Kingston

main-topmast

nautical the mast immediately above the mainmast