Berth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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berth
[bəːθ ]
Definitions
on a ship
A bed or sleeping accommodation on a ship or train.
Synonyms
bunk, cabin, compartment.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| berth |
This can be used to describe a docking space for a ship as well. It's the same word as the sleeping berth but in a different context.
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| bunk |
Typically used to refer to a simple bed, often stacked in pairs, commonly found in military, dormitories, or ships.
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| cabin |
Refers to a private room or compartment on a ship, train, or an airplane, usually offering more comfort and privacy.
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| compartment |
Used to describe a separated section or division within a larger enclosed area, often used in trains and ships.
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Examples of usage
- The captain's berth was located on the upper deck of the ship.
- I reserved a berth in the second-class cabin for the overnight journey.
parking
A space in a ship, train, or other transport to accommodate a particular item or category of cargo.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| berth |
As mentioned previously, it refers to a ship's assigned position at a port or docking station.
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| dock |
A dock is a structure extending alongshore or out from the shore into a body of water, to which boats may be moored. It can also refer to the act of bringing a ship or vessel into such a structure.
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| mooring |
Mooring refers to the act of securing a ship to a particular place using ropes or anchors. It can also denote the place where the ship is secured.
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| pier |
A pier is a structure leading out from the shore into the water, typically supported by pillars and used as a landing place for boats. Often used for recreational purposes.
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Examples of usage
- The car was parked in a designated berth at the port.
- The ship had enough berths for all the containers.
ship
To bring a ship into its berth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| berth |
This word is often used to refer to a place where a ship is secured in a port. It can also mean a place to sleep in a vehicle like a train or ship, or metaphorically, it can mean a job or position.
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| dock |
Dock is commonly used to describe a platform extending from the shore where ships are loaded or repaired. It also refers to the action of bringing a ship into a dock.
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| moor |
Moor is used to describe securing a ship or boat to a fixed object or in a specific location, usually using ropes or anchors. This term is more specific to the action than 'anchor'.
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| anchor |
Anchor is typically used when talking about stopping a ship and holding it in place in water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone that provides stability and support.
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Examples of usage
- The crew skillfully berthed the ship at the dock.
- The captain berthed the vessel without any issues.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'berth'
The word 'berth' originated from Middle English 'berthe', meaning 'a place for sleeping'. It has been used in nautical contexts since the 15th century, referring to a bed or sleeping accommodation on a ship. Over time, its meaning expanded to include a designated space for cargo on a ship or train. The verb form 'berth' emerged later in the context of bringing a ship into its place at a dock. The word has retained its maritime connotations through the centuries.