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The Collaborative International Dictionary
By the stern

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.

  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.

  3. Fig.: The post of management or direction.

    And sit chiefest stern of public weal.
    --Shak.

  4. The hinder part of anything.
    --Spenser.

  5. The tail of an animal; -- now used only of the tail of a dog.

    By the stern. (Naut.) See By the head, under By.