from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Stern \Stern\, n. [Icel. stj[=o]rn a steering, or a doubtful AS.
ste['o]rn. [root]166. See {Steer}, v. t.]
1. The helm or tiller of a vessel or boat; also, the rudder.
[Obs.] --Chaucer.
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2. (Naut.) The after or rear end of a ship or other vessel,
or of a boat; the part opposite to the stem, or prow.
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3. Fig.: The post of management or direction.
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And sit chiefest stern of public weal. --Shak.
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4. The hinder part of anything. --Spenser.
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5. The tail of an animal; -- now used only of the tail of a
dog.
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{By the stern}. (Naut.) See {By the head}, under {By}.
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