'By the stern' definitions:

Definition of 'By the stern'

From: GCIDE
  • Stern \Stern\, n. [Icel. stj[=o]rn a steering, or a doubtful AS. ste['o]rn. [root]166. See Steer, v. t.]
  • 1. The helm or tiller of a vessel or boat; also, the rudder. [Obs.] --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Naut.) The after or rear end of a ship or other vessel, or of a boat; the part opposite to the stem, or prow. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Fig.: The post of management or direction. [1913 Webster]
  • And sit chiefest stern of public weal. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. The hinder part of anything. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. The tail of an animal; -- now used only of the tail of a dog. [1913 Webster]
  • By the stern. (Naut.) See By the head, under By. [1913 Webster]