adverb
astern
uh-STURN
Astern (adverb) means Behind a ship or boat, or moving backward. Example: “The tugboat fell astern as the liner picked up speed.”
adverb
1
Behind a ship or boat, or moving backward.
"The tugboat fell astern as the liner picked up speed."
"The captain ordered "full astern" to slow the ship."
How to use astern
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA nautical term meaning behind a vessel, or moving backward.
When to use it
Mainly used in nautical and maritime contexts.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more astern
- Superlative
- most astern
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The tugboat fell _____ as the liner picked up speed.
Etymology
From "a-" (meaning "toward") plus "stern," the rear part of a ship.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for astern
See all rhymes for astern →Frequently asked questions
What does “astern” mean?
The word “astern” means behind a ship or boat, or moving backward. In plain terms, a nautical term meaning behind a vessel, or moving backward.
How do you pronounce “astern”?
“Astern” is pronounced uh-STURN (/əˈstɝn/ in IPA).
How do you use “astern” in a sentence?
Here is “astern” used in a sentence: “The tugboat fell astern as the liner picked up speed.”
What is the opposite of “astern”?
The opposite of “astern” — its antonyms — is ahead.
What part of speech is “astern”?
“Astern” is an adverb.
