Overboard, in maritime terminology, primarily refers to a condition where something or someone unintentionally falls or gets thrown off the side of a ship, boat, or other watercraft into the water. This event could be a result of various circumstances, such as turbulence, mishandling, accidental slip, or a deliberate act. In a broader context, the term also encapsulates acts of jettisoning cargo or equipment from the watercraft into the sea. Getting "thrown overboard" or "falling overboard" is a critical emergency situation in maritime operations due to the inherent safety hazards involved.

1. During a rough sea journey, a heavy crate slipped and went overboard, sinking into the ocean depths. 2. While fishing, Jack was so excited about catching a large fish that he accidentally knocked his tackle box overboard. 3. The strong gust of wind took them by surprise, causing them to drop their map which then flew overboard. 4. The captain, in order to save the sinking ship, ordered his crew to throw the non-essential cargo overboard. 5. During a sailing race, in a sudden turn, the yacht tilted and the skipper's hat went overboard.

The term "overboard" commonly associated with situations involving water vessels, where someone or something goes over the side of a boat or ship into the water, actually dates back to the late 14th century. It originates from the Middle English word "over bord," where 'bord' means the 'side of a ship'. Interestingly, throughout naval history, the phrase "man overboard" is used when someone unexpectedly falls off a ship into the sea, initiating a rescue operation immediately. It's such an ingrained term in maritime language, and yet many people don't realize its ancient origins.