Definition of "abeam" in English

adverb

1. (nautical, aircraft) On the beam; at a right angle to the centerline or keel of a vessel or aircraft; being at a bearing approximately 090 Degrees or 270 Degrees relative.

2. (nautical, aircraft) Alongside or abreast; opposite the center of the side of the ship or aircraft.

adjective

1. (nautical, aircraft) Alongside or abreast; opposite the center of the side of the ship or aircraft.

   • The island was directly abeam of us.

preposition

1. (nautical) Alongside.

   • She came abeam the crippled ship.

adjective

1. Beaming, shining (especially with reference to a person's face or eyes).

   • 1876, William Davidson, Sermons on the Parables, Cincinnati: Western Tract Society, Sermon 1, p. 41, […] the hearts of the saints [will] be all attention and their faces all abeam for the consolation;