Sailor Speak of the Week – Fantail

Definition

Noun

• The aftermost part of the ship at the stern. Usually at the main deck.

Origin

Mid-19th century. From American English, referring to the early elliptical (fan-shaped) sterns of vessels.

Comments

Another word for the stern of a vessel. It usually refers to the aftermost part of the main deck. Not to be confused with the fantail bird.

References

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.