sternward crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "sternward crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AFT: Towards the back or stern of a ship or aircraft.
6 Letters
ASTERN: In, at, or toward the stern of a ship or the rear of an aircraft.
7 Letters
AFTWARD: Directed toward the stern or rear; a direct synonym for sternward.
More About "sternward crossword clue"
The term "sternward" is an adverb or adjective that indicates a direction towards the stern of a vessel. The stern is the rear-most part of a boat or ship, as opposed to the bow, which is the front. This nautical terminology is frequently encountered in crosswords, and understanding its meaning is key to unlocking various answers.
Clues using "sternward" often test your knowledge of maritime vocabulary. While "sternward" itself might not be the direct answer, it serves as a strong indicator for related terms like AFT, which literally means "in, at, or toward the stern," or ASTERN, which conveys a similar sense of direction or position behind. Identifying these common related words can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Beyond literal direction, "sternward" can sometimes subtly imply a backward motion or a retreat in a metaphorical sense, although in crosswords, it almost exclusively refers to the physical orientation on a vessel. Always consider the letter count provided by the puzzle, as this is the most crucial hint for distinguishing between similar answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Understand Nautical Terms: Many crosswords feature clues related to ships, sailing, and the sea. Familiarize yourself with basic terms like 'bow', 'stern', 'port', 'starboard', 'fore', and 'aft'. Knowing these can make clues like 'sternward' much easier to solve.
- Check Letter Counts: Always cross-reference the number of letters you have available with the potential answers. For a clue like 'sternward', if you have three spaces, 'AFT' is a strong candidate, while six spaces might point to 'ASTERN'.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often use synonyms, antonyms, or related concepts. Think about what 'sternward' means and what its opposite might be (e.g., 'bow-ward' or 'forward') to help you brainstorm.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the surrounding clues or already filled-in letters can provide additional context. If other clues in the puzzle are maritime-themed, it reinforces the nautical nature of 'sternward'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sternward' mean in a crossword?
Sternward is an adjective or adverb used in maritime contexts, meaning directed towards the stern (rear) of a ship or vessel. In crosswords, it often points to answers like AFT or ASTERN.
Are there common synonyms for 'sternward' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms often found as answers for 'sternward' clues include AFT, ASTERN, or occasionally terms describing the rear part of a boat or plane.
How can I easily solve nautical crossword clues?
Nautical clues often use specific terminology. Familiarize yourself with common ship parts (bow, stern, port, starboard) and directions (fore, aft, amidships). Pay attention to the number of letters required, as this often narrows down options like AFT vs. ASTERN.