STEM (5)

Stem, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Stemmed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Stemming.] [[Either from stem, n., or akin to stammer; cf. G. stemmen to press against.]] To oppose or cut with, or as with, the stem of a vessel; to resist, or make progress against; to stop or check the flow of, as a current. “An argosy to stem the waves.” Shak. stem the flood with their erected breasts. Denham. Stemmed the wild torrent of a barbarous age. Pope.