From stem to stern
phrase
Covering the entirety of something, usually a ship.
The ship was lit up from stem to stern.
Often appears as...
- lit up from stem to stern
- cleaned from stem to stern
phrase
From beginning to end.
The book, from stem to stern, was a thrilling read.
Often appears as...
- read from stem to stern
- boring from stem to stern
phrase
Covering the entirety of something, usually a ship.
The ship was lit up from stem to stern.
Often appears as...
- lit up from stem to stern
- cleaned from stem to stern
phrase
From beginning to end.
The book, from stem to stern, was a thrilling read.
Often appears as...
- read from stem to stern
- boring from stem to stern
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Nautical Origin
The phrase originates from nautical vocabulary, referring to the front and back of a vessel.
He knew his boat from stem to stern, every nook and cranny.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Used metaphorically, it describes thoroughness in tasks or descriptions.
The event planner arranged the venue from stem to stern.
Pro Tip 3/3Visual Imagery
It evokes a strong visual image of something being filled or covered completely.
The garden was in full bloom, colorful from stem to stern.
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