A condition where the wind hits the forward side of a vessel's sails, pressing them back against the mast. This can happen by accident due to a sudden wind shift or poor steering, which stalls the boat, or it can be done intentionally to slow down or help turn the bow through the wind.
Heard on the job
The sudden squall caught us aback and pinned the mainsail hard against the rigging.
Insider tip
Being "taken aback" unexpectedly is dangerous on a square-rigger because it puts immense reverse strain on the masts.
Also heard as
- Caught aback
- Taken aback