aft

UK: ɑːft | US: æft

Definition
  1. adv. toward or at the stern (rear) of a ship or aircraft

  2. adj. located at or near the stern of a ship or tail of an aircraft

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "aft" originates from Old English æftan ("behind, from behind"), derived from Proto-Germanic aftan- ("back, rear"). It is related to Old Norse apt ("behind") and German after ("after"). The term has consistently referred to the rear section of a vessel or aircraft, preserving its directional meaning over centuries. Its compact form reflects its Germanic roots, where spatial terms often remain unsegmented.

Examples
  1. The crew gathered aft to lower the lifeboats.

  2. The ship's engine room is located aft of the cargo hold.

  3. Passengers are advised not to linger aft during rough seas.

  4. The captain adjusted the rudder from the aft control panel.

  5. Aft compartments are typically reserved for storage on small aircraft.