Why is the right side of a ship called starboard side?

The term "starboard" originates from Old English "steor" (meaning "steering") and "bord" (meaning "the side of a ship"). Historically, ships were steered with a rudder on the right side, making it the designated side for steering. Over time, "starboard" became the standard term to refer to the right side of a ship, distinguishing it from the left side, known as "port."