Definition of "athwart" in English

adverb

1. From side to side, often in an oblique manner; across or over.

   • Above, the stars appeared to move slowly athwart.
   • We placed one log on the ground, and another athwart, forming a crude cross.

2. Across the path of something, so as to impede progress.

   • a fleet standing athwart our course

3. (figuratively) Against the anticipated or appropriate course of something; improperly, perversely, wrongly.

preposition

1. From one side to the other side of; across.

   • The stars moved slowly athwart the sky.

2. Across the course or path of, so as to meet; hence (figuratively), to the attention of.

3. Across the course or path of, so as to oppose.

4. Across; through.

5. Opposed to.

6. (nautical) Across the line of a ship's course, or across its deck.

   • The damaged mainmast fell athwart the deck, destroying the ship’s boat.