checkstay /ˈtʃɛkˌsteɪ/ noun1 •A stay, typically adjustable, attached to the mast below the primary backstay, used to control mast bend and stabilize the midsection of the mast, preventing unwanted movement or “pumping”.Locura's Harken small boat checkstay tackles are powerful and easy to adjust. — 1983 formscheckstays