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.