The place that supports the bottom of the mast. The mast step usually has a built in pattern fitting a matching pattern on the bottom of the mast, enabling the mast to be accurately positioned.

Fitting or construction into which the base of the mast is placed.

a deck fitting that allows the mast to be placed or stepped at one of several fore and aft positions.

The fitting or receptacle that receives the base of the mast to secure it in position.

the thing that the bottom of the mast sits on, either at the bottom of the boat or on the deck. If the mast has stays, the mast step has to take a lot of downward thrust.