Anchoring: meaning, definitions and examples

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anchoring

[ ˈæŋ.kər.ɪŋ ]

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psychology

A cognitive bias that describes the common human tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information seen (the 'anchor') when making decisions.

Synonyms

Examples of usage

Anchoring can influence judgments in various situations, such as negotiations or pricing.
When presented with an initial price, people tend to adjust their subsequent evaluations around that anchor.
People may be unaware of how anchoring affects their decision-making process.

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sailing

A device used to prevent a boat from drifting due to wind or current.

Synonyms

Examples of usage

The sailors threw the anchor overboard to secure the boat in place.
Anchoring is essential for boats to stay in one location during rough weather.

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broadcasting

A person who presents a television or radio program and holds it together.

Synonyms

Examples of usage

The anchor of the news program provided updates on the current events.
The role of an anchor is crucial in maintaining the flow of the broadcast.

Word origin

The word 'anchoring' originates from the Old English word 'ancor', which in turn comes from the Latin 'anchora' and the Greek 'ankura'. The concept of anchoring in psychology was introduced by Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman in the 1970s as part of their research on cognitive biases. In sailing, the use of anchors dates back to ancient times when sailors relied on heavy stones or wooden logs to keep their ships in place. The term 'anchor' in broadcasting refers to the person who holds a program together, keeping it steady and secure like a boat anchored in place.