1. The crew members stationed at or responsible for the after (rear) part of a ship.
Usage: nautical; plural noun; also used as a collective singular
2. The railing or guard at the stern (rear) of a ship.
Usage: nautical; less common usage

Examples

• The afterguards were responsible for managing the sails near the stern.
• During the storm, the captain ordered the afterguards to secure the rigging.
• The afterguards worked in coordination with the forecastle crew to maintain the ship.
• On a large vessel, the afterguards included the bosun and several experienced sailors.
• The afterguards kept watch over the rear section of the deck throughout the night.