Starboard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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starboard
[ˈstɑːrˌbɔːrd ]
Definition
nautical direction
Starboard refers to the right-hand side of a ship or aircraft when facing forward. It is an essential term used in navigation, as it helps to avoid confusion when directing movements. The opposite of starboard is port, which refers to the left side. Understanding these terms is crucial for communication in maritime operations and for safety on vessels.
Synonyms
right-hand side.
Examples of usage
- The captain ordered the crew to turn starboard.
- The lighthouse was clearly visible from the starboard side.
- To avoid collision, we need to steer starboard.
- In sailing, the starboard side is often marked with green lights.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Nautical Culture
- On ships, commands often refer to starboard to avoid confusion with left, which can be called 'port.'
- Lights on the starboard side of a ship are green, while the port side has red lights, which help indicate direction when navigating at night.
Historical Facts
- In piracy lore, knowing the difference between starboard and port could mean life or death for navigating the waters.
- The British Royal Navy adopted the terms starboard and port to standardize navigation language.
Modern Usage
- Starboard is commonly used in aviation as well, indicating the right side of an aircraft when looking forward.
- In maritime law, the starboard side often has specific rights regarding docking and maneuvering in harbors.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Pirates of the Caribbean' often showcase nautical terms, with starboard being a key part of sailing dialogue.
- In video games, particularly those involving pirates or ships, players must learn the meaning of starboard to navigate effectively.
Origin of 'starboard'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from Old English 'styrbord,' which means the side on which the ship is steered.
- In sailing, 'starboard' was historically the side where the steering oar was placed, as many early ships were steered with a paddle on that side.
The term 'starboard' has its origins in Old English, specifically from the word 'styrbord', which meant 'the side on which the steering oar is used.' The word is a combination of 'styr', meaning 'to steer', and 'bord', meaning 'the side of a ship'. Historically, early ships were steered with a single oar mounted on the right side due to the predominance of right-handed steersmen. This led to the adoption of 'starboard' to denote the right side of the vessel. Over time, as sailing and navigation evolved, the term became standardized in maritime language. The use of starboard and port has been crucial in naval communication, ensuring clarity and safety at sea.