Yachtists

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A group of individuals who engage in sailing or racing recreational boats
2. Enthusiasts who participate in yachting, either as a pastime or competitive pursuit
3. Persons who own or operate yachts and share a common interest in maritime activities

Etymology: "Yachtists" is the plural of "yachtist," a person who takes part in yachting. The base word, "yacht," came into English from Dutch "jaghte" (a fast pursuit ship), and originally described a light, swift vessel used for chasing or pursuing other ships. The "-ist" ending, borrowed from Greek through Latin and French, marks someone who practises or follows an activity, as in "cyclist" or "pianist." Because "yacht" once named a fast chasing vessel, the Dutch root carries a sense of pursuit that has little to do with the leisurely sailing the word describes today. The shift from pursuit to pleasure happened gradually as yachts became associated with recreation and racing.

Synonyms: sailors, boaters, mariners