schooner
UK[ˈskuːnə(r)]US[ˈskuːnər]
n
a sailing ship with two or more masts, typically with the foremast smaller than the mainmast, and with gaff-rigged lower masts.
n
a tall glass for serving beer.
Etymology
the word 'schooner' entered the english language in the early 18th century, first recorded in massachusetts. its origins are shrouded in anecdote; a popular story claims it derives from the scots verb 'to scoon' or 'scoon,' meaning to skip or skim over water, though this etymology is speculative. it is more likely a borrowing from a north american source, possibly related to dutch or germanic nautical terms. the term's logic lies not in a composite of classical roots but in its adoption as a whole to name a specific, fast type of vessel, with the meaning later extending by analogy to a tall, elegant beer glass.
Analysis
this word is a loanword of uncertain origin, adopted as a simplex form into english. it does not lend itself to segmentation into productive english morphemes based on its current spelling.
Examples
the old schooner glided gracefully into the harbor with its sails billowing.
he ordered a pint of ale, which arrived in a chilled schooner.
historical records show the schooner was a popular design for coastal trade and privateering.