From a- ('on, toward') and stern, the nautical term for the rear of a ship. Stern itself came into English in the early 13th century, probably from Old Norse stjórn ('steering, rudder'), related to stýra ('to steer'). The compound astern is first recorded in the 1620s in nautical texts.
What does astern mean?
Astern means at or toward the rear (stern) of a ship, or behind another vessel. It also means moving backward: 'the captain ordered full astern' means full reverse thrust.
What is the difference between astern and aft?
Both relate to the rear of a vessel. Aft describes position within the ship ('the aft cabin', 'go aft'). Astern describes position relative to another vessel ('a ship astern of us') or backward movement ('engines astern').
What does 'full astern' mean?
Full astern is a nautical engine order meaning maximum reverse thrust — propel the vessel backward at full power. It is used to stop the ship quickly or to move away from a berth.
What is the opposite of astern?
The opposite of astern is ahead (for direction or movement) or fore/forward (for position).
Where does the word astern come from?
Astern combines a- ('on, toward') with stern, from Old Norse stjórn ('steering'). The compound is first recorded in English nautical texts in the 1620s.