The world was all before them where to choose.
Milton.
Before the mast (Naut.), as a common sailor, -- because the sailors live in the forecastle, forward of the foremast. -- Before the wind (Naut.), in the direction of the wind and by its impulse; having the wind aft.
Be*fore", adv. 1. On the fore part; in front, or in the direction of the front; -- opposed to in the rear.
The battle was before and behind.
2 Chron. xiii. 14.