Definition

In the direction of the right side of a ship when facing forward.

Example

The captain ordered the crew to steer astarboard to avoid the rocks.

Conversation

Did you see that boat astarboard during our trip?

Yeah, it looked really impressive sailing by.

I wonder what it was carrying on the astarboard side.

Probably some cargo; those ships are always busy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Astarboard is derived from the Old English "æstar" (meaning east) and "bord" (meaning side of a ship). The term originally referred to the side of a ship that was on the right when facing forward, which is associated with the direction of the rising sun in the east.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'east' ('æstar') to remember that 'astarboard' refers to the right side of a ship when facing forward.

Visually Confused Words