1. toward the stern or rear of a ship
Usage: nautical

1. directed toward the stern or rear of a ship
Usage: nautical

Examples

• The crew moved sternward to secure the equipment.
• She walked sternward along the deck to check the rigging.
• The captain ordered a sternward retreat from the rocky shore.
• The wind pushed the boat in a sternward direction.
• All passengers were asked to move sternward for better balance.
• The sternward motion of the vessel indicated engine trouble.