Said of sails pressed backward against the mast by the wind- hence, TAKEN ABACK, taken by surprise.
On the back; backwards, as used by sailors; by surprise; unexpectedly.
An abacus.
A small branch or shoot cut off a tree; a long, thin piece of wood; something similar in shape to such a piece; as, a stick of candy; a rod or wand to be held in the hand, as a cane. ...