starboard
word
Definition
Starboard is the right side of a ship or boat when you are facing the front. It is a fixed nautical direction, so it does not change with where you are standing.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in nautical, maritime, and aviation-safety contexts; in everyday speech, people usually say 'right side' unless they are talking about boats. Common pair: 'port and starboard'. Learners often confuse it with the speaker's right, but it always means the vessel's right when facing forward.
Example Sentences
The lifeboat is on the starboard side of the ship.
basic
Turn to starboard now.
basic
We saw lights off the starboard side.
basic
There's another boat coming up on our starboard side.
natural
Keep an eye on starboard while I check the map.
natural
I always mix up port and starboard when I'm nervous.
natural