poop decks

Raised stern platforms

A poop deck is the raised deck at the stern of a ship, typically forming the roof of a cabin below.

The name comes from the Latin *puppis* meaning stern, not from excrement—though the nautical term provides endless amusement for children learning about ships.

Historically, the poop deck gave officers an elevated position for observing the crew and sea conditions.

The captain surveyed the horizon from the poop deck.

Related

masts · ship · tall ship · wooden ships · maritime · sailing · vessel · galleon · steering · frigate · man-of-war · taffrail · navigation · exploration · helm · ship's wheel · seas · voyage

Opposites
ship location (fore-aft)

poop decksforecastle

Forward upper deck section

fo'c'sle · bow · foredeck · prow · bowsprit

vertical position on ship

poop deckshold

Maintain in grasp

lower deck · cargo hold · bilge · below decks · keel

Family

poop, deck, poops, decks, pooped, pooping, decked, decking, decker

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G