Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.

   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.

   3. Fig.: The post of management or direction.

            And sit chiefest stern of public weal. --Shak.

   4. The hinder part of anything. --Spenser.

   5. The tail of an animal; -- now used only of the tail of a
      dog.

   {By the stern}. (Naut.) See {By the head}, under {By}.