set sail

present singular third person sets sail · participle present setting sail

1. To depart on a voyage by boat or ship.

   We set sail for the Caribbean.

   Synonyms: put out

   1. literalTo spread and arrange the sails of a sailboat or sailing ship for the purpose of putting out.

      The sailors of the regatta are going to wait out this weather before they set sail.

      Synonyms: put out

   2. figurativelyTo do the analogous counterpart on a vessel with any other means of propulsion, such as steaming.

      A Navy task force is expected to set sail shortly.

      Synonyms: put out