stern chaser

noun

1. a cannon mounted at or near the stern of a sailing ship, facing aft.

stern-chaser

noun

1. a gun mounted at the stern of a vessel for firing aft at a pursuing vessel

Word History and Origins

Origin of stern chaser¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

At two o'clock, the Belvidera opened with her bow guns, to which the Constitution responded with her stern chasers.

From Project Gutenberg

Pivot guns were so fixed as to be used for bow and stern chasers, and the pilot-house was placed forward of the smoke-stack and armored with four inches of iron.

From Project Gutenberg

We gave chase to them; but when we came within gun shot of the stern most, she fired her stern chasers at us.

From Project Gutenberg

We returned their fire with our stern chasers.

From Project Gutenberg

Behold the conning tower above The big stern chasers pointing aft!

From Project Gutenberg