What is the middle of the sailboat that holds up the sails?

The middle of a sailboat that holds up the sails is called the mast. The mast is a vertical pole that supports the sails and rigging, allowing the boat to harness wind power for propulsion. It is typically made of wood, aluminum, or fiberglass, depending on the boat's design and purpose. The sails are attached to the mast with various lines and hardware to facilitate adjustments for optimal sailing performance.