as in backwards
near, toward, or in the stern of a ship or the tail of an aircraft
if you turn around and look astern, you'll see dolphins following the boat
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for astern
Adverb
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Also of note is the Dusk Bar, which sits aft on Deck 10 and is stocked with interesting spirits.—
David Swanson,
Travel + Leisure,
27 May 2024 -
Open exterior decks forward and aft allow for a steady sea breeze, as the owner—who was last aboard his yacht in the summer of 2021—used to regularly enjoy.—
Julia Zaltzman,
Robb Report,
10 Feb. 2023
Adjective
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The same can’t quite be said to the rear seat area due to the sportback sloping roof, though headroom is only really maxed out for folks over six-feet tall (like yours truly), otherwise shoulder and leg room are surprisingly good.—
Peter Nelson,
Forbes.com,
20 Sep. 2025
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The only difference is that reflective tint in most states is not allowed anywhere on the windshield and can't be more than 35% on the front and rear windows.—
Keenan Thompson,
USA Today,
20 Sep. 2025
Adverb
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Robinson also explained the obscure engravings found on bullet casings that were left behind at the scene.—
Connor Greene,
Time,
17 Sep. 2025
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This allows for more sugars in the leaves to be left behind when the trees begin to transition into winter mode, producing vibrant red and sometimes purple leaves.—
Kyle Reiman,
ABC News,
16 Sep. 2025
Adverb
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The man then smiled and asked him a question that was so unexpected that the teenager involuntarily took several steps backward.—
John Blake,
CNN Money,
14 Sep. 2025
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Annett threw a backwards pass to Dorsett Stecker who threw a 33-yard touchdown to James to give the Sea Kings a 28-21 lead.—
Michael Huntley,
Oc Register,
13 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Astern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/astern. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.
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