noun Nautical. the part of a weather deck that runs aft from the midship area or the mainmast to the stern or poop of a vessel.

What does the term quarterdeck mean?

1 : the stern area of a ship's upper deck. 2 : a part of a deck on a naval vessel set aside by the captain for ceremonial and official use.

Why do you salute the quarterdeck?

A tradition maintained on all naval vessels is that any sailors entering or departing the quarterdeck are to salute. ... Today the salute is seen as respecting the authority of the ship and the colours that are flown on the quarterdeck.