Stays (nautical)

It is a large strong rope, wire or rod extending from the upper end of each mast and running down towards the deck of the vessel in a midships fore-and-aft direction.

The shrouds serve a similar function but extend on each side of the mast and provide support in the athwartships direction.

Those led aft towards the vessel's stern are backstays while those that lead forward towards the bow are forestays.

"To stay" is also a verb: to bring the ship's head up to the wind (to point the bow upwind).

A suitable vessel well handled can usually be stayed swiftly, without losing noticeable way (without slowing down), and the sails will go over gently and without fuss or overshooting.