Abaft.—The position, towards the stern, or hinder part of the yacht, from any stated point; as, "abaft the forecastle," "abaft the mainmast," "abaft the cabin."
Abeam.—Any object is said to be abeam that bears at right angles to the line of the keel; and an imaginary line drawn at right angles across the keel, equidistant from the bow and stern, divides the yacht into two parts. Any thing bearing forward of this line is said to be "forward of the beam," and any thing bearing behind this line is said to be "abaft the beam."
Aboard.—In the yacht; as, "Get the anchor aboard!" "Come aboard!"
About.—A yacht is said to "go about" when tacking, the order to prepare for which is, "Ready about!"
Abreast.—Opposite to, as relates to the sides of a yacht; as, abreast of a lighthouse, when the side of the yacht is at right angles to it, or nearly so.
Adrift.—Broken loose from moorings; or any thing rolling about the decks loose in a sea-way is said to have broken adrift.
Afloat.—Clear of the bottom, sustained by the water.
Afore.—That part of the yacht nearest to the stem, or head.
Aft.—Behind; as, "Stand further aft," "Haul aft the main sheet!" i.e. bring the boom nearer the line of the keel.
After.—Hinder, as after sails, such as the mainsail, in contra distinction to forward-sails, such as the jib.