starboard

American  

[stahr-berd, -bawrd, -bohrd] / ˈstɑr bərd, -ˌbɔrd, -ˌboʊrd /

noun

1. the right-hand side of or direction from a vessel or aircraft, facing forward.

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adjective

1. of or pertaining or located to the starboard.

adverb

1. toward the right side.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to turn (the helm) to starboard.

starboard British  

/ ˈstɑːbəd, -ˌbɔːd /

noun

1. the right side of an aeroplane or vessel when facing the nose or bow Compare port 2

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adjective

1. relating to or on the starboard

verb

1. to turn or be turned towards the starboard

Etymology

Origin of starboard

before 900; Middle English sterbord (noun), Old English stēorbord, equivalent to stēor steering ( steer ¹ ) + bord side ( board )

Example Sentences

It said the tanker sustained only "minor damage" on the starboard side and that none of the 20-strong crew were hurt.

From Barron's • Nov. 29, 2025

“Shortly after, the boat rolled over to starboard, and the passengers entered the water. The survivor recalled that it started snowing after the boat rolled over while the people were in the water.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2025

He ducked back into his cabin but couldn’t find anything, and then he felt the ship roll to starboard and saw water pour through his cabin door.

From Slate • Jul. 22, 2025

At times, Bryne and screenwriter Nick Lepard turn out such an effective cat-and-mouse game that you’ll forget there’s an even bigger predator waiting just off the starboard side of the boat.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2025

Flicking his dreadlocks over his shoulder, he strode across the deck, calling orders to the rest of the starboard watch.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee