stern chaser

American  

noun

1. a cannon mounted at or near the stern of a sailing ship, facing aft.

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stern-chaser British  

noun

1. a gun mounted at the stern of a vessel for firing aft at a pursuing vessel

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Etymology

Origin of stern chaser

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

At two o'clock, the Belvidera opened with her bow guns, to which the Constitution responded with her stern chasers.

From Project Gutenberg

Pivot guns were so fixed as to be used for bow and stern chasers, and the pilot-house was placed forward of the smoke-stack and armored with four inches of iron.

From Project Gutenberg

We gave chase to them; but when we came within gun shot of the stern most, she fired her stern chasers at us.

From Project Gutenberg

Behold the conning tower above The big stern chasers pointing aft!

From Project Gutenberg

At eight o'clock the "Wasp" had gained so rapidly upon the chase, that the latter began firing with her stern chaser, and soon after opened with one of her lee guns.

From Project Gutenberg