sternway

[ sturn-wey ]

noun

1. Nautical. the movement of a vessel backward, or stern foremost.

sternway

/ ˈstɜːnˌweɪ /

noun

1. nautical movement of a vessel sternforemost

Word History and Origins

Origin of sternway¹

First recorded in 1760–70; stern ² + way ¹

Example Sentences

Suddenly, glancing up at the dim cloud of sails above, I saw that we were aback and making sternway.

From Project Gutenberg

When sufficient sternway had been gathered the engines were put to full speed ahead to check her.

From Project Gutenberg

As far as could be seen, there was now nothing for'ard to prevent the submarine gathering sternway.

From Project Gutenberg

He stopped his ship, and then backed water, making sternway to the Hartford, so as to stop her also.

From Project Gutenberg

The chief asks for the engines to be stopped; sternway is putting purchase on the binding pressure of the rudder.

From Project Gutenberg