Why is the back of a ship called the stern?

The term "stern" comes from Old Norse "stjǫrn," which means "the steering" or "the rudder." Historically, the stern is the part of the ship where the steering mechanisms were located, making it essential for navigation. Over time, this term became widely adopted to refer to the rear section of the vessel. Thus, the name reflects both its functional importance and its linguistic roots in maritime culture.