1. across the width of a ship, from one side to the other; in a direction perpendicular to the ship's length
Usage: nautical; also spelled 'athwartships'

1. extending or positioned across the width of a ship; perpendicular to the ship's length
Usage: nautical

Examples

• The cargo was lashed athwartship to prevent it from shifting during rough seas.
• The athwartship beams support the deck structure of the vessel.
• The sailor moved athwartship across the deck to reach the other rail.
• An athwartship wind can make steering more difficult for the helmsman.
• The ship's athwartship dimension is called its beam.
• The crew secured the rigging athwartship before the storm arrived.