The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
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   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.
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   3. Fig.: The post of management or direction.
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            And sit chiefest stern of public weal. --Shak.
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   4. The hinder part of anything. --Spenser.
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   5. The tail of an animal; -- now used only of the tail of a
      dog.
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   By the stern. (Naut.) See By the head, under By.
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