"Overboard" is a nautical term describing when a person or object has fallen or been thrown over the side of a boat into the water. In sailing, this frequently triggers a "man overboard" (MOB) emergency, initiating specific maneuvering, such as a figure-eight, to return to the person. It originated from Old English, meaning over the "board" or side of a ship.

Key Aspects of the Overboard Term:
"Man Overboard!" (MOB): An emergency shout indicating a crew member has fallen overboard and requires immediate rescue.

Alternatives: Sometimes termed "person overboard" or in training scenarios, "buoy overboard".

Context: It can also refer to throwing items (jetsam) overboard to stabilize a vessel.

Idiomatic Usage: The phrase "going overboard" originates from this, meaning to do something in excess of what is necessary or reasonable.

Immediate Actions (Man Overboard Procedure):
Shout: "Man overboard" to inform the crew immediately.

Assign Spotter: Someone must keep their eyes on the person in the water to avoid losing them in the waves.

Throw Floatation: Toss a lifebuoy, cushion, or Danbuoy towards the person.

Maneuver: Execute a rescue maneuver (e.g., figure-eight or Quick Stop) to bring the boat back to the person, usually while bringing the boat to a close reach.