afterguard (aftergard)

In men-of-war, that division of the crew which is stationed on the quarter-deck to work the after-sails, etc., generally composed of ordinary seamen and landsmen who are not required to go aloft; hence, a drudge; one occupying an inferior position. While in the steerage, however useful and active you may be, you are but a mongrel, - a sort of afterguard and "ship's cousin." R. H. Dana , Jr. , Before the Mast, p. 57. after hind (af'ter-hind), adv . [ after + hind3, as in behind .] Afterward. Also written after hin , after hint . [Scotch.]