Nautical Term: Stand by

Definition of Stand by

—Stand by— is a nautical term used as a preparatory order given to a vessel or crew member to prepare for an impending action or condition. For instance, the bridge of a container ship might issue the order Stand by, engine room in anticipation of receiving a command to increase speed. In summary, the term Stand by is a preparatory order used in the nautical world to instruct vessels or crew members to prepare for an upcoming action or condition.

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