larboard Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the left side of a ship or aircraft to someone who is aboard and facing the bow or nose
    port.
  2. adjective satellite located on the left side of a ship or aircraft
    port.

WordNet

Lar"board` noun
Etymology
Lar- is of uncertain origin, possibly the same as lower, i. e., humbler in rank, because the starboard side is considered by mariners as higher in rank; cf. D. laag low, akin to E. low. See Board, n., 8.
Definitions
  1. (Naut.) The left-hand side of a ship to one on board facing toward the bow; port; -- opposed to starboard. ✍ Larboard is a nearly obsolete term, having been superseded by port to avoid liability of confusion with starboard, owing to similarity of sound.
Lar"board` adjective
Definitions
  1. On or pertaining to the left-hand side of a vessel; port; as, the larboard quarter.

Webster 1913