The term afterguard may seem unfamiliar to many people. However, it is a common term used in the maritime industry. It is important to understand the meaning of this term, especially for those who are interested in the field of sailing and boating. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of afterguard, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of how it is used in sentences.
Definitions
Afterguard refers to the crew members who are in charge of the aft (rear) part of a sailing vessel. They are responsible for handling the sails, steering the boat, and ensuring the smooth operation of the vessel. The afterguard is comprised of the helmsman, mainsail trimmer, spinnaker trimmer, and other crew members who work in the aft section of the boat.
Origin
The origin of afterguard can be traced back to the 19th century when sailing was the main mode of transportation across the seas. The term afterguard was used to describe the crew members who worked in the aft section of the boat. The word “after” refers to the rear part of the boat, and “guard” refers to the people responsible for the safety and operation of the vessel.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, afterguard is defined as “the crew members who work in the aft section of a sailing vessel.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the crew members responsible for the aft section of a sailing vessel.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “the crew members who are responsible for the sails and steering of the boat in the aft section.”
Associations
Afterguard is associated with the sailing industry and is commonly used in yacht racing. It is also associated with the maritime industry and is used in the context of sailing vessels of all sizes, from small sailboats to large ships.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of afterguard include stern crew, aft crew, aft team, aft watch, and aft deck crew.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of afterguard. However, crew members who work in the forward section of the boat can be referred to as the foredeck crew.
The same root words
Afterguard is made up of two root words, “after” and “guard.” The word “after” is derived from the Old English word “æfter,” which means “behind.” The word “guard” is derived from the Old French word “garder,” which means “to guard or protect.”
Example Sentences
- The afterguard worked tirelessly to adjust the sails and steer the boat through the rough waters.
- The afterguard was responsible for ensuring the safety of the boat during the storm.
- The helmsman and mainsail trimmer were part of the afterguard on the sailing vessel.
- The aft crew, also known as the afterguard, were skilled sailors who knew how to handle the boat in any condition.
- The afterguard’s expertise in sailing helped the boat win the race.