SHIPTALK: A GLOSSARY OF SHIPPING AND MARITIME TERMS

ABAFT – Toward the rear (stern) of the boat. Behind.
ABEAM – At right angles to the keel of the boat, but not on the boat.
ABOARD – On or within the boat.
ABOVE DECK – On the deck (not over it – see ALOFT)
ABREAST – Side by side; by the side of.
ADRIFT – Loose, not on moorings or towline.
AFT – Toward the stern of the boat.
AGROUND – Touching or fast to the bottom.

ABAFT – Toward the rear (stern) of the boat. Behind.
ABEAM – At right angles to the keel of the boat, but not on the boat.
ABOARD – On or within the boat.
ABOVE DECK – On the deck (not over it – see ALOFT)
ABREAST – Side by side; by the side of.
ADRIFT – Loose, not on moorings or towline.
AFT – Toward the stern of the boat.
AGROUND – Touching or fast to the bottom.
AHEAD – In a forward direction.
AIDS TO NAVIGATION – Artificial objects to supplement natural landmarks indicating safe and unsafe waters.
ALEE – Away from the direction of the wind. Opposite of windward.
ALOFT – Above the deck of the boat.
AMIDSHIPS – In or toward the center of the boat.
ANCHORAGE – A place suitable for anchoring in relation to the wind, seas and bottom.
ASTERN – In back of the boat, opposite of ahead.
ATHWARTSHIPS – At right angles to the centerline of the boat; rowboat seats are generally athwartships.
AWEIGH – The position of anchor as it is raised clear of the bottom.