sternway

[ sturn-wey ]

/ ˈstɜrnˌweɪ /

Nautical. the movement of a vessel backward, or stern foremost.

Origin of sternway

First recorded in 1760–70; stern² + way¹

Therefore, when sternway is on a vessel, put the helm in the same direction in which the head is to be turned.

The Seaman's Friend |Richard Henry Dana
In order to enable the vessel to turn speedily, she is fitted with the sternway rudder of Messrs. Thomson & Biles.

Scientific American Supplement, No. 620, November 19,1887 |Various
The mass of iron fell half in-board upon the now stayed boat, and gave her sternway, with a splintered plank.

For the Term of His Natural Life |Marcus Clarke
This gives her sternway, and the after sails and helm keep her to the wind.

The Seaman's Friend |Richard Henry Dana

The brig may get a lot of sternway on her should this squall not strike her fairly.

The Rescue |Joseph Conrad

sternway

/ (ˈstɜːnˌweɪ) /

nautical movement of a vessel sternforemost