The Nautical Encyclopedia

Patterson’s Illustrated Nautical Encyclopedia — Howard Patterson, 1891

⚓ The Superstition Locker ⚓

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Home ⚓ Letter S ⚓ Stand-by

Stand-by

Sea Terms

An order given to the crew to attend, prepared and waiting for orders.

← Standard Time All “S” entries Standing →

2026 Editor's Note: 'Stand by' — ready, waiting for the order — went from deck command to universal English: standby lists, standby power, 'stand by for news.' The order is still given afloat exactly as here. (Ed: BR 2026-07-03)

About Historical Disclaimer Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy Contact

The Nautical Encyclopedia (1891) is in the public domain; this digital edition © 2026 PhotoOpAI.