Definition of "afterguard" []

• The members of a yacht's crew who attend to the aft sails (noun)

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• "When his back was turned from them the sailors indulged in grins and back-slappings and other rough demonstrations of their knowledge that the "afterguard" were not on agreeable terms."
• "Besides, I understand that every forecastle has its bully, or group of bullies; so this is merely a forecastle matter and no concern of the afterguard."
• "In reply, we of the afterguard pointed out that it was our chance for life that was doubled did we but bear with the half-pound ration."