Dismasting is a term used in sailing when a ship's mast has been broken or knocked over due to strong winds or rough seas. Some other synonyms for dismasting include demasting, mast collapse, mast failure, and mast wreckage. Other phrases commonly used in nautical language to describe the same situation include "lost mast," "toppled mast," "broken mast," and "destroyed mast." Regardless of the terminology used, the consequences of dismasting can be dangerous for crew members aboard a vessel as well as for any nearby vessels or structures. Immediate action must be taken to secure the vessel and prevent further damage or risk of capsizing.