Triangular sails, or lateen sails, were developed to improve sailing efficiency and maneuverability. Their shape allows for better wind capture, enabling boats to sail at various angles to the wind, including into the wind itself. This design was particularly advantageous for navigating coastal waters and exploring new territories, as it offered greater control and speed compared to traditional square sails. The innovation of triangular sails played a crucial role in maritime trade and exploration during the Middle Ages and the Age of Discovery.
Around 2,300 BC
"Square-riggers" have primarily square sails, but the jib sails are triangular.
Sloops, ketches, and yawls have triangular-shaped sails.
Square sails are square
They were referred to as "four-cornered" sails.
The boat had triangular sails.
Square sails (rectangular) were (are) called four-cornered sails.
The boat was small and had two triangular sails.
caravel
caravel
Trapezoidal, actually. But the square sails were called square sails. Lateen or square could be referred to as yards.
Arabs