Aft: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in nautical contexts to refer to the back part of a ship or boat. Typically used in more technical or formal situations related to marine navigation.

• The crew gathered aft to prepare for docking.
• The lifeboats are located aft of the main deck.

A general term used to describe the rear part of something. Applicable in a wide range of contexts including everyday conversations.

• She put her bag in the back of the car.
• They sat at the back of the bus.

Often used to specify the back part of an object, vehicle, or building. Commonly used in both everyday and formal contexts.

• The garden is at the rear of the house.
• The rear door is locked.

Refers specifically to the rearmost part of a ship or boat. Used in maritime contexts, often more formal or technical.

• The captain stood at the stern, overlooking the sea.
• The boat got damaged at the stern during the storm.

Used in a nautical or aviation context, referring to the back part of a ship or aircraft.

• The crew moved aft to balance the load
• The luggage compartment is located aft

Used to describe movement in the opposite direction to the usual or intended direction, in general contexts.

• He stumbled backwards and nearly fell
• The car rolled backwards down the hill

A formal or literary term describing movement towards the back.

• The troops moved rearwards to regroup
• He glanced rearwards but saw nothing